Date: October 29, 2025
Source: BASKETMAN (YouTube)
Following the Toronto Raptors’ loss to the Houston Rockets, head coach Darko Rajaković spoke with reporters about the team’s rebounding struggles, the impact of missing Jakob Poeltl, and the need for stronger execution on defense. He also discussed the continued development of his second unit and how the group must adapt to changing roles early in the season.
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On the Rebounding Battle
“That’s the game right there. They got 17 offensive rebounds, 53 total compared to our 22 — that’s a 31-rebound difference. Our guys were fighting, but they manhandled us inside the paint. We didn’t have an answer on the glass.”
On How Rebounding Affected the Offense
“You’re right — when you’re giving up offensive rebounds and putbacks, it slows you down. Even on made shots, we tried to run. I thought offensively we did a solid job moving the ball and shooting it well from three, but we need more contributions from everyone — starters and bench alike.”
On the Second Unit’s Impact
“They’re fighting and doing a lot of good things. Those guys are still learning their roles. We had to start Collin, who was in just his third game, and without Yak, everyone’s in different roles. We’re still searching for combinations that can help each other. The energy is good, but we were just smaller — they punked us on the glass.”
On Defensive Aggression and Rotations
“When you have a player like Sengun playing back-to-the-basket, there’s no going back — you have to get the ball out of his hands. If we had Yak tonight, it would be a different story. Without that size, we had to rotate more and force the ball out. The problem wasn’t the scheme — it was the execution in those situations.”
Pulse Takeaway
Darko Rajaković didn’t sugarcoat the Raptors’ issues, calling rebounding the decisive factor in the loss. With Jakob Poeltl sidelined and the second unit adjusting to new roles, Toronto was undersized and overmatched inside. Rajaković emphasized execution and accountability as the team looks to stabilize its defense and find lineup chemistry moving forward.
Quotes from Darko Rajaković via BASKETMAN (YouTube). Used for analysis and commentary.