Raptors clash against Timberwolves as both seek to preserve winning streaks

The Toronto Raptors are off to a hot start so far this season, with two double-digit wins, albeit against opponents of…let’s say “uncertain” quality. Still, they’ve been more or less as advertised, especially on defence, where they’ve given up just 97 points per game and held players like Anthony Davis and Josh Giddey to to horrible shooting nights. Now, they’re hitting the road to take on the new-look Minnesota Timberwolves, who have had nothing but good vibes lately. Will the Raptors pick up another win? Let’s take a look at how the two teams match up.

On the last episode

Last year’s Raptors lost both matchups against Minnesota, both by single digits. Both teams have made notable changes since then, which could make for an exciting early-season game.

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Know thy enemy

There’s a new kid in town! After a couple of seasons of hoping an aging Mike Conley can turn back the clock and buoy them at the point guard position (not to mention their point guard of the future, Rob Dillingham, not working out and already on his second team), the Wolves shocked the league by trading the jettisoning the talented-but-mercurial Julius Randle and the locally adored Naz Reid while bringing in a walking highlight reel in LaMelo Ball.

Basketball: Minnesota Timberwolves LaMelo Ball (1) and Anthony Edwards (5) high five each other following game vs Miami Heat at the Kaseya Center. Miami, FL 10/21/2026CREDIT: Erick W. Rasco (Photo by Erick W. Rasco/Sports Illustrated via Getty Images) (Set Number: X164967 TK1)

For all of his goofiness, Ball is one of the league’s premier playmakers, a rare tall guard with a dangerous handle, real creativity, and the ability to make any pass with either hand. His shot selection can be, um, optimistic, and his defensive focus has come and gone, but he’s looked like a surprisingly natural fit in his first-ever stint on a serious team with serious aspirations, even stepping up on the defensive end so far.

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But Anthony Edwards’s new backcourt partner isn’t the only thing that’s changed the look of these Wolves. Jonathan Kuminga is also new in town, and starting at Randle’s old power…

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Publish date : 2026-10-25 13:30:00

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