Rajaković Reveals When Leonard Will Make His Return for Toronto

Darko Rajaković has announced that the two-time NBA champion will play in Tuesday's preseason matchup against the New York Knicks. This will mark his first game for the franchise since Game 6 of the 2019 NBA Finals, when he led Toronto to their first-ever championship and earned his second Finals MVP award.

The coaching and medical staff have taken a cautious approach with Leonard during the 2026 preseason. Following limited offseason activity amid ongoing league investigations and trade talks, he sat out the first two preseason games. Now, he is ready to return to the floor.

Rajaković also praised the veteran's progress over the past few days. Although he has been cleared to play, Leonard's workload is expected to be managed similarly throughout the 2026–27 regular season as Toronto looks to maximize his peak performance.

Last season, Leonard averaged 27.9 points, 6.4 rebounds, 3.6 assists, and 1.9 steals per game across 65 appearances for the Los Angeles Clippers.

Meanwhile, Jakob Poeltl is fully healthy. The Austrian center completely overhauled his strength and conditioning routine over the summer to address lower back issues. He and Leonard will test their game fitness during a packed schedule this week.

Following Tuesday's home game, Toronto visits the defending champion Knicks at Madison Square Garden on Thursday before wrapping up the preseason on Friday against the Detroit Pistons at Little Caesars Arena.

The Raptors tip off the regular season next Wednesday at home against the Chicago Bulls.

Video: Rajaković surprises reporter: "What a voice you have, I feel like I'm in a movie!"