Toronto Raptors Summer League Breakouts: Who Are the New Stars in Town?
While the final scoreboard might show that the Toronto Raptors narrowly missed the Summer League playoffs by a mere five points, focusing on the result would be a mistake. In the world of the NBA Summer League, winning is secondary; the real prize is talent discovery. Whether it’s a rookie proving their worth or a veteran fighting for a lifeline, this is where the future of a franchise is forged.
Despite the heartbreaking finish, Toronto’s 3-1 run in Las Vegas provided a glimpse of an exciting future. Three players, in particular, separated themselves from the pack, showing the grit and skill necessary to thrive in the 6ix.
1. Allen Graves: The Complete Package
If there were any doubts about the No. 19 pick in the 2026 NBA Draft, they were silenced this week. Allen Graves didn’t just put up impressive numbers; he controlled the rhythm of the game. With an average of 16.8 points, 6.8 rebounds, and a stunning 50% success rate from beyond the arc, Graves looked every bit the first-round talent.
What makes Graves truly special isn’t just the scoring—it’s his versatility. From diving for loose balls to picking pockets on defense, his “relentless motor” is exactly what head coach Darko Rajakovic has been demanding. With a high basketball IQ and a passing game reminiscent of his point guard days in high school, Graves looks like a draft steal who is already perfectly synced with the Raptors’ system.
2. Seth Lundy: The Consistent Veteran
Experience matters, and 26-year-old Seth Lundy brought a level of maturity and stability to the roster. Having previously spent time with the Atlanta Hawks, Lundy played with a confidence that rubbed off on his teammates. He led the way with a consistent 20.0 points per game, shooting 43.8% from three.
Beyond the scoring, Lundy provided the kind of defensive spark the Raptors have craved. His highlight of the tournament? A clutch, game-saving block against the Indiana Pacers that preserved a victory and cemented his status as a high-impact player. For a team that struggled with perimeter shooting last season, Lundy could be the missing piece of the puzzle.
3. Nate Bittle: The Modern Rim Protector
Coming from Oregon with a legendary reputation as a shot-blocker, Nate Bittle wasted no time making his presence felt. He opened the week by swatting away six shots against the Boston Celtics, proving that his timing and size are elite.
However, the most exciting part of Bittle’s game is his evolution into a “stretch-big.” Drawing comparisons to players like Brook Lopez, Bittle showed he can protect the rim and then turn around and knock down threes. In the finale against Miami, he tallied 13 points and three blocks in just 18 minutes, showcasing an efficiency that is rare for a seven-footer.
Looking Ahead: The Road to Training Camp
The Summer League is about finding “small wins,” and the Toronto Raptors walked away with several. As the team prepares for training camp, the big question remains: how will these standouts be integrated into the main roster?
- Allen Graves: A lock for the roster given his draft status.
- Seth Lundy: A strong candidate for a shooting specialist role.
- Nate Bittle: A high-upside project that could redefine the Raptors’ interior defense.
One thing is certain: the energy in Toronto is building, and these three players have given fans plenty of reasons to be optimistic about the upcoming season.
