Oct 6, 2025; Vancouver, British Columbia, CAN; Toronto Raptors forward Collin Murray-Boyles (12) handles the ball against the Denver Nuggets in the second half at Rogers Arena. Mandatory Credit: Bob Frid-Imagn Images

Collin Murray-Boyles has had a strong start this preseason with the Toronto Raptors, and the ninth pick recently earned some praise from coach Darko Rajaković.

Murray-Boyles is averaging 6.7 points, 3.7 rebounds and 2.7 assists on 44.4% shooting from the field in three appearances. He recorded 12 points, seven rebounds, six assists and two blocked shots on Wednesday in a win over the Sacramento Kings.

The 20-year-old has made an impact on both ends of the court, while committing no turnovers in nearly 48 minutes of work. He also took the challenge of defending Nikola Jokić and Domantas Sabonis head-on, which has stood out to Rajaković.

What I really respect about him is that he is fearless. He is going to go out there and guard anybody position 1-5 and go through the wall type of guy, so I really respect that. Two games before this, he had moments guarding the best player in the world in Nikola Jokić, an All-Star in Sabonis ... I think he is a young player who is learning on a quick pace right now.

Murray-Boyles was limited to just eight minutes on Friday in a win against the Boston Celtics because of an elbow injury. He was sidelined for practice on Saturday to undergo further medical testing after X-rays came back clean, according to Rajaković.

The 6-foot-7 forward is highly touted because of his defensive intensity, post presence and ability to make plays for others. He also added a 3-point shot last season and should be able to develop into a solid floor spacer at the next level with additional reps.

The Raptors believe Murray-Boyles can impact games defensively right away, as demonstrated in a limited sample size. They were ecstatic to add him in the draft and will be eager to see him develop throughout the upcoming season.

This article originally appeared on Rookie Wire: Raptors' Darko Rajaković singled out a key skill he respects about Collin Murray-Boyles

Reporting by Cody Taylor, Rookie Wire / Rookie Wire

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