Knicks Edge Raptors 122–120 in Preseason Thriller: Player Highlights and 2026–27 Season Outlook
The New York Knicks and Toronto Raptors delivered another entertaining chapter in their preseason matchup, with New York escaping with a narrow 122–120 victory on October 15, 2026. The result gave the Knicks a close finish to their preseason series against Toronto after the Raptors dominated their previous meeting, 148–98.
With the 2026–27 NBA regular season approaching, both teams have plenty to prove. New York is looking to build on its established core and contend in the Eastern Conference, while Toronto hopes its blend of young talent, improved defense and veteran star power can take the franchise to another level.
Game recap: New York finds a way to win
The Knicks' 122–120 victory was a much closer contest than Toronto's previous preseason win over New York. Although preseason results do not count toward the regular-season standings, the matchup offered a glimpse of the offensive talent and depth both teams will rely on in the months ahead.
For New York, the narrow win was an opportunity to finish its preseason on a positive note. For Toronto, the result reinforced the importance of executing in close games, especially when the competition gets tougher in the Eastern Conference.
Player highlights to watch
Jalen Brunson — Knicks
Brunson remains the centerpiece of New York's offense. His ability to create shots off the dribble, control the pace and deliver in pressure situations will be crucial to the Knicks' championship ambitions. His leadership and late-game decision-making are major strengths.
Kawhi Leonard — Raptors
Leonard's return to Toronto is one of the biggest storylines of the season. In the October 13 preseason matchup against New York, he scored 21 points in just 17 minutes, showing the scoring efficiency and defensive instincts that made him a championship-level star.
Scottie Barnes — Raptors
Barnes is central to Toronto's long-term success. His combination of playmaking, rebounding, physical defense and ability to attack the basket gives the Raptors versatility on both ends. His chemistry with Leonard and RJ Barrett will be a major storyline.
Karl-Anthony Towns — Knicks
Towns gives New York a powerful inside-outside scoring threat. His three-point shooting, rebounding and ability to stretch opposing defenses can create space for Brunson to attack. His performance against physical front courts will be important throughout the season.
Collin Murray-Boyles — Raptors
Murray-Boyles is a young player worth monitoring. His defensive activity, finishing around the rim and ability to guard multiple positions could help Toronto build a more versatile rotation. Continued improvement in his outside shooting would make him an even more valuable complement to the team's stars.
What to expect from the Raptors in 2026–27
Toronto enters the new season with legitimate reasons for optimism. The Raptors finished the 2025–26 regular season with a 46–36 record and fifth place in the Eastern Conference before losing in the first round of the playoffs. Leonard's return adds another experienced scorer to a group led by Barnes, Barrett and Immanuel Quickley.
The biggest question is how quickly the core can develop chemistry. Toronto has to balance Leonard's scoring with Barnes' playmaking and Barrett's attacking style, while keeping Quickley healthy and developing its young talent.
The Raptors' transition game could be a major advantage. They averaged 18.9 fast-break points per game last season, ranking first in the NBA, according to the league's season preview. If they maintain that pace while improving their half-court offense, they could become a difficult matchup for the East's leading teams.
The key to Toronto's season: staying healthy, defending consistently and finding reliable scoring when opponents slow down the fast break.
What to expect from the Knicks in 2026–27
New York's outlook revolves around Brunson's leadership, Towns' scoring and rebounding, and the two-way contributions of Mikal Bridges, OG Anunoby and Josh Hart.
The Knicks have the personnel to compete with top Eastern Conference teams, but their success will depend on defensive consistency, bench production and their ability to close out tight games. The 122–120 result against Toronto provided a reminder that small execution details can decide a close contest.
Their priorities should be maintaining offensive balance, limiting turnovers and making sure their defensive intensity matches their scoring ambitions.
The key to New York's season: turning its talented starting group into a consistent team capable of winning tough games in the playoffs.
Final verdict: Can either team make a deep playoff run?
The Raptors have the potential to surprise people if Leonard stays available and Barnes continues to develop as a two-way leader. Their combination of size, speed and defensive versatility gives them a foundation to build on.
The Knicks, meanwhile, have a strong core and the experience to target a deep postseason run. Their challenge will be sustaining that level of performance against the best teams in the conference.
The preseason is only the beginning. The real test will come when the games count, the rotations tighten and every possession matters.
Who has the better season ahead — the New York Knicks or the Toronto Raptors?
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