Toronto Raptors forward Collin Murray-Boyles is transitioning from a successful rookie campaign into a multi-dimensional role, with coaching staff emphasizing expanded playmaking and perimeter shooting. According to Raptors assistant coach Ivo Simovic, the team’s goal for the second-year forward is to increase his court time to 30-plus minutes per game by developing his ability to function beyond his previous role as an undersized center.
Expanding the Skill Set: Beyond the Dunker Spot
During his rookie season, Murray-Boyles proved effective in the “dunker spot” and as a screen-setter, averaging 21.7 minutes per game in the regular season and 27.3 minutes during the playoffs. However, the Raptors’ development plan, led by Simovic, aims to move him away from being one-dimensional. Over a four-week span—including three weeks in Toronto and a one-week mini-camp in Columbia, S.C.—the focus shifted to ball-handling in pick-and-roll scenarios and transition play.
“We need him to play 30-plus minutes, and to do that, you cannot be one-dimensional,” Simovic said. During a closed scrimmage against the Orlando Magic, Murray-Boyles began implementing these new offensive responsibilities. The coaching staff has granted him a “green light” for the NBA Summer League in Las Vegas, with Simovic noting that he is encouraging the young forward to be aggressive, even if it results in six or seven turnovers per game during the exhibition period.
Defensive Versatility and the “Chaos” Factor
The Raptors are looking to leverage Murray-Boyles’ defensive instincts alongside established players like Scottie Barnes and Kawhi Leonard. When asked about the potential defensive impact of a lineup featuring himself, Barnes, and Leonard, Murray-Boyles characterized the prospect as “chaos” for opposing teams.
Murray-Boyles also highlighted the play of former Raptor OG Anunoby during the New York Knicks’ recent championship run as a model for his own development. He pointed to Anunoby’s ability to act as an “X-factor” through versatile, lockdown defense and efficient offense as a benchmark for young players. “That’s what you need to be trying to model yourself after,” Murray-Boyles said.
Front Office and Coaching Staff Realignment
The Raptors’ development of Murray-Boyles coincides with structural changes to the coaching staff. Following the contract extensions of head coach Darko Rajakovic and his staff through the 2030-31 season, the organization is expected to hire Stephen Silas as an assistant coach, according to a league source. Silas brings extensive experience, including three seasons as the head coach of the Houston Rockets and a tenure as head coach for Team USA during FIBA World Cup qualifying.
Other staff changes include the departures of Mike Batiste, who joined Panathinaikos, and James Wade, who served on the front of the bench for three seasons.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the main goal for Collin Murray-Boyles this off-season? The primary objective is to expand his offensive game to include ball-handling and perimeter shooting, allowing him to play more than 30 minutes per game.
- Who is joining the Raptors’ coaching staff? The team is expected to hire Stephen Silas, a veteran coach with prior experience as an NBA head coach and with Team USA.
- How did Murray-Boyles spend his post-season break? He returned to his hometown of Columbia, S.C., for a period of rest, focusing on home-cooked meals and avoiding travel.
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