Darko Rajakovic named Toronto Raptors head coach
The final head coaching vacancy in the NBA has been filled. The Toronto Raptors are finalizing a deal to make Darko Rajakovic the team’s head coach, according to Adrian Wojnarowski.
ESPN Sources: The Toronto Raptors are finalizing a deal to hire Memphis Grizzlies assistant Darko Rajakovic as the franchise’s next coach. pic.twitter.com/AEPu64p2F2
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) June 10, 2023
The Raptors nabbed Rajakovic from the Memphis Grizzlies, where he served as an assistant coach since 2014. All of Rajakovic’s NBA assistant coaching experience has come as a member of the Grizzlies staff, but he has also coached in the G League and internationally.
Rajakovic spent two years as the head coach of the Tulsa 66ers, the Oklahoma City Thunder’s G League affiliate. In terms of head coaching, Rajakovic spent three seasons as the head coach for Espacio Torrelodones of the Spanish EBA League.
Rajakovic was born in Serbia and will be the second European coach in NBA history.
Rajakovic will be tasked with filling the shoes of NBA champion head coach Nick Nurse who Toronto fired after a disappointing season that netted a 41-41 record.
The Raptors are currently in an interesting spot. The team has several flaws that need to be rectified if the team hopes to compete at a high level. At the same time, Jakob Poeltl is a free agent while Fred VanVleet and Gary Trent Jr. both have player options for the upcoming season. By the time Rajakovic steps foot on the court, the Raptors may have a completely rebuilt roster.
The positive note about Rajakovic is that his development skills are highly touted in the NBA. If the Raptors opt to add youth talent, he is a coach that can help them progress in their skillset.
Rajakovic’s hiring fills the final NBA head coaching vacancy.
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