Toronto Raptors X-Factor For The 2025-26 Season - Immanuel Quickley

After missing out on the playoffs for the past three seasons, the 2025-26 version of the Toronto Raptors has renewed playoff aspirations with a new-look roster. While Brandon Ingram, Scottie Barnes, and RJ Barrett may draw the most attention, it may be point guard Immanuel Quickley who has a significant impact on whether the team plays more than 82 games. 

Quickley’s 2024-25 season was limited to just 33 games due to injury, playing in just 16 games prior to the All-Star break. Battling through elbow and hip injuries for most of the season, Quickley struggled to provide the Raptors with the floor general they desperately needed. When healthy, the combo guard has averaged 17.9 points, 6.3 assists, and 4.2 rebounds while shooting 42/38/85 percentage splits. If Quickley can once again produce these numbers or better, the Raptors should find themselves playing at least four more games next spring.

While the addition of Ingram could impact the number of buckets Quickley gets this season, he should also play a factor in helping increase the point guard’s assist numbers. With multiple scoring options to play with, Quickley now guides a starting unit with four legitimate threats, covering all spots on the floor. 

It’s not just on the offensive end that Quickley will make an impact for the Raptors this season, as fans often overlook his defensive contributions. Standing at 6’3”, with a 6’8” wingspan, Quickley has the physical tools to compete defensively. Playing alongside Barnes and Barrett, the Raptors have a versatile trio of defenders capable of guarding multiple positions. 

For the Raptors’ playoff dreams to come true, Quickley’s availability will be key. If he can remain healthy, space the floor and provide steady playmaking for Toronto’s top scoring threats, he could very well be the X-factor between the team once again bidding for a lottery pick and one that should compete for an Eastern Conference playoff berth.