Kawhi Leonard made his return to Scotiabank Arena on Wednesday night, helping the Toronto Raptors crush the Chicago Bulls 135-92 in their 2026–27 season opener. Playing in his first regular-season game back in Toronto following his summer acquisition, the 35-year-old veteran finished with 23 points to delight the home crowd. Torontonians welcomed back the 2019 championship hero, who returned to the Queen City this summer, and were treated quite to a show as it was not far from being a perfect evening. Leonard, whose single season with the Raptors left excellent memories, proved he is still in shape following the most successful offensive campaign of his career.
A Star-Studded Return Against Chicago
The lopsided victory gave Toronto the largest opening-night margin of victory in franchise history at 43 points. The Raptors thoroughly dismantled the Bulls from the opening tip, building an advantage that reached as high as 48 points during the contest.
Scottie Barnes and Immanuel Quickley each matched Leonard with 23 points. Barrett chipped in 20 points to round out a balanced offensive attack. Quickley distinguished himself by sinking four downtown shots.
Nostalgia Gives Way to Forward Momentum
Ahead of the regular-season opener, Leonard released a digital tribute video via social media on Tuesday, acknowledging the passage of time since he last wore a Raptors uniform. “Toronto, it’s been a minute since I left, and one thing I’ve learned about time: People move on, things change, and even the greatest moments become memories,” Leonard said in the video. He added, “But some things … some things stay with you. What we shared here, that’s forever.”
Despite the nostalgia, Leonard emphasized that his return was about building something new rather than living in the past. “One thing I know: it wasn’t luck the first time, and I still know what it takes. But I’m not here to live in the past; I’m here for what’s next. Here in the north, we got a young team. Hungry and ready. So, Toronto, let’s make this unforgettable. As I return to you.”
Preseason Preparation Precedes Opening Night Success
Leonard’s readiness for the opener came after a brief tune-up period during the exhibition schedule. The forward sat out Toronto’s preseason finale due to rest before returning to action for the regular-season tip-off scheduled for Wednesday night at 7:30 p.m. ET / 4:30 p.m. During two preseason appearances, Leonard averaged 13.5 points, 3.0 rebounds, and 2.0 steals in 19.6 minutes per contest, according to the information provided.
Wednesday’s explosive 43-point victory validates the high expectations surrounding Toronto’s roster as the 2026–27 campaign gets underway.
Raptors were 9th in defense last season.Then they added Kawhi Leonard.Now they're absolutely suffocating Chicago on Opening Night.This defense might be even scarier than we thought. pic.twitter.com/FPcpzQKxpK
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