The Toronto Raptors entered the 2024–25 NBA season with modest expectations, as the franchise openly embraced a youth movement and a focus on player development. Critics quickly label this approach as a mere rebuilding strategy, but the season has revealed a different narrative. Toronto’s rookie class, headlined by Jonathan Mogbo, has met and exceeded expectations, providing tangible reasons for optimism about the franchise’s future.
Mogbo’s historic triple-double broke a nearly 30-year drought for the Raptors and highlighted the impact first-year players can have in the NBA. Alongside Mogbo, rookies such as Walter and Battle have contributed offensively and defensively. Their performances have signaled that Toronto focuses on individual player growth and building a new team identity rooted in youth, energy, and versatility.
Raptors’ 2024–25 Season in Review
Toronto finished the 2024–25 season with a 30–52 record, placing third in the Atlantic Division and 11th in the Eastern Conference. FanDuel had the team over/under for season wins at 30.5, so the team finished where expected. The team was officially eliminated from playoff contention on April 1, marking their third consecutive season without a postseason appearance. Despite the disappointing win-loss record, the Raptors’ campaign was defined by the emergence of their rookie class and a clear organizational shift toward long-term development.
Leading the League: Rookie Minutes and Production
Throughout the season, the Raptors prioritized giving their youngest players significant on-court opportunities. By the end of the regular season, Toronto ranked second in the NBA in both rookie minutes played and rookie scoring. This commitment was not merely the result of injuries or necessity; it was a deliberate strategy by the coaching staff and front office to accelerate the development of their young core.
The team’s approach was evident in games where as many as six of eight double-digit scorers were undrafted or non-lottery players. This developmental focus was on display in a 120–109 victory over the Brooklyn Nets, which snapped a three-game losing streak and showcased the contributions of the rookie class.
For fans and analysts, this influx of rookie minutes provided a wealth of data for evaluating player potential and projecting future roles. It also made Toronto’s games a point of interest for those tracking rookie prop bets and fantasy basketball lineups.
Standout Statistical Performances
While the Raptors’ overall record reflected the growing pains of a young roster, the statistical output from the rookie class offered legitimate hope. Jonathan Mogbo, in particular, emerged as a key figure. Over a seven-game stretch late in the season, Mogbo averaged 10.6 points per game on 52% shooting, demonstrating marked improvement in his offensive game.
Walter, another rookie, showed flashes of scoring ability and defensive prowess. His future role in the rotation will depend on further development of his catch-and-shoot skills, but his point-of-attack defense has already made a positive impression. Battle, meanwhile, has earned praise for his defensive tenacity and ability to contribute as a specialist.
The Triple-Double That Made History: Jonathan Mogbo’s Milestone
On April 9, 2025, Jonathan Mogbo delivered a performance that etched his name into Raptors history. In a 126–96 victory over the Charlotte Hornets, Mogbo recorded 17 points, 11 assists, 10 rebounds, and three steals, becoming the first Toronto rookie since Damon Stoudamire in 1995 to achieve a triple-double. Mogbo’s achievement was particularly notable as it marked his first triple-double at any level of basketball, having previously fallen short in both high school and college.
Mogbo played 37 minutes in that game, finishing with a plus-20 rating and shooting 7-of-16 from the field. Raptors head coach Darko Rajaković praised Mogbo’s dedication and work ethic, highlighting the significance of the accomplishment for both the player and the organization.
Development Opportunities Through Adversity
Toronto’s emphasis on rookie development was partly a response to adversity. The team faced one of its worst seasons in over a decade, with key veterans sidelined due to injuries or trades. This created opportunities for rookies like Mogbo, Walter, and Battle to step into larger roles and gain experience in high-pressure NBA scenarios.
This strategic pivot away from prioritizing immediate wins allowed the coaching staff to focus on skill development and evaluation. The increased playing time for rookies accelerated their growth and provided valuable insights into which players could be foundational pieces for the future.
Building for Tomorrow: The 2025 NBA Draft Strategy
The Raptors’ investment in rookie development directly impacts their approach to the 2025 NBA Draft. With a 30–52 record, Toronto is projected to pick seventh in the draft lottery, holding a 7.5% chance to secure the No. 1 overall pick according to FanDuel’s most recent NBA updates. The NBA Draft Lottery will be held in Chicago on Monday, May 12, 2025, at 6:30 p.m. ET. The lottery outcome will play a significant role in shaping the team’s offseason strategy.
Toronto’s success in finding value outside the lottery, such as selecting Mogbo with the 31st pick, may influence its draft philosophy. Frontcourt defense is expected to be a priority, with prospects like Maluach drawing interest. Battle’s development as a shooter and Walter’s scoring versatility will also factor into decisions about whether to target immediate starters or depth pieces. Additionally, a prospect like Collin Murray-Boyles could provide needed defensive skills and help alleviate pressure on established players like Scottie Barnes.
Toronto’s Rookies Rewrite the Narrative
The 2024–25 season marked a turning point for the Raptors, as the franchise shifted from being defined by veteran leadership to forging a new identity through rookie production. While critics anticipated a lost season, Toronto’s young players have delivered historic performances and shown resilience in adversity.
Jonathan Mogbo’s triple-double symbolizes what the team’s youth movement can achieve. More importantly, the adversity faced by these rookies has proven to be a catalyst for their growth, positioning the Raptors as one of the NBA’s most intriguing young teams heading into the 2025 draft and beyond. With a clear developmental strategy and a promising rookie core, Toronto’s future appears brighter than its record might suggest.
