RJ Barrett is the imperfect answer to Raptors navigating Kawhi’s injury history

The Toronto Raptors have reacquired forward Kawhi Leonard despite his extensive past injury issues. Due to concerns regarding Leonard's ongoing durability and availability, shooting guard RJ Barrett is positioned as a key high-volume scoring option to help carry the team's offense whenever Leonard is sidelined.

Leonard's track record includes missing at least 20 games in six of the past nine seasons, including sitting out the entire 2021-22 season and missing 45 games in 2024-25. Barrett is identified as a dynamic shot creator and playmaker capable of filling the offensive void.