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There is a common narrative that European coaches struggle in the NBA because of their demanding and emotional approach. That it is one of the biggest things holding them back because they want to put themselves at the center of attention, while the NBA is ultimately a players’ league. They are often viewed as too tactically focused and not focused enough on catering to the people who are under the brightest spotlight – the superstars who have done the most to make the game a global phenomenon.
One coach who has managed to bridge the gap between the European and American approaches, preserving the essence of both and doing so successfully, is Darko Rajakovic. Highlights of his emotional exchanges with referees often make the rounds, but so do his moments with the media, such as when he called Scottie Barnes a future face of the league after what he described at the time as Barnes being treated unfairly.
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At the same time, Rajakovic is widely regarded around the league as a player’s coach, someone who knows how to connect with stars. Russell Westbrook is perhaps the best example back when both were in Oklahoma City. And since becoming the head coach of the Toronto Raptors, Rajakovic has shown that he can successfully balance those two sides of coaching — perhaps his greatest strength.
However, the upcoming season will put him to a much bigger test and bring a different kind of pressure than he has faced previously. The reason is clear: the arrival of Kawhi Leonard has shifted the Raptors’ trajectory more firmly toward championship aspirations. FanDuel has Toronto with the sixth-lowest championship odds entering the 2026-27 NBA season.
“We entered the rebuilding process two years ago, and in a relatively short period of time, we managed to make significant progress. The core of the team was made up of young players we drafted and developed within our system, and with a few additions from outside, we took another step last season, going from 30 wins to 46,” Rajakovic told SB Nation, explaining how this team was built.
Along with all of those qualities, the Serbian coach is also known for his ability…
Source link : https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/darko-rajakovic-kawhi-leonard-scottie-120000609.html
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Publish date : 2026-10-09 12:00:00
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