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RJ Barrett Shares Blueprint for Raptors' Postseason Turnaround

2026-06-24 · RJ Barrett · Player Focus

RJ Barrett Shares Blueprint for Raptors' Postseason Turnaround

RJ Barrett, the Toronto Raptors' wing, shared a veteran blueprint for the team's postseason turnaround after a grueling Game 2 loss.

What happened in Game 2?

The Raptors lost Game 2, but RJ Barrett's post-game analysis provided insight into what the team needs to do to survive the series. The scoreboard didn't reflect a win, but Barrett's perspective carries weight as the most seasoned playoff veteran on the roster.

Experience Leading the Way

With four playoff series under his belt, Barrett has seen the highs and lows of postseason intensity. Barrett believes the team's "Raptors basketball" identity, defined by gritty defense and relentless hustle, will be the equalizer.

Identifying the Raptors' Problem

The most pressing issue facing Toronto is their slow start, which forces them to expend energy to pull even. Getting down early against elite playoff teams like the Cleveland Cavaliers makes it tough to fight back, especially on the road. The Cavaliers crowd at Rocket Arena has had an impact in the last two games.

Finding Their Rhythm

Barrett pointed to the second half as a proof of concept, where the Raptors found a flow that worked. The task now is to bottle that success and apply it to the full 48 minutes, said Barrett via Sportsnet reporter Michael Grange. "We played more Raptors basketball. We just got to do it from the start of the game," Barrett said. So, the Raptors need to establish a rhythm in the opening minutes rather than waiting until the second half to wake up. Against teams like the Cavaliers, fighting back isn't easy, especially when the Raptors are on the road. The Raptors have to stop being their own worst enemy in the first quarter, as Barrett suggests. The blueprint is already on the film, they just have to be poised enough to execute it from the opening tip. If the Raptors can get into their rhythm and execute their game plan earlier, they should have a better chance to even the series. And the team needs to capitalize on those moments where they play well, said Barrett. Barrett's perspective is crucial, given his experience in the postseason. The Raptors will look to apply Barrett's blueprint in their next game.

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