The Toronto Raptors head coach, Darko Rajakovic, just let go of his player.

In the season opener for both clubs, Toronto defeated the Minnesota Timberwolves 97-94 on Wednesday, behind 22 points and seven assists from Dennis Schroder. It was Rajakovic’s first time policing Toronto’s sideline and Schroder’s first regular-season match with the Raptors.

Rajakovic was screaming before the ice bath ever reached him, according to Schroder. “We got all the ice ready for him and placed it over him, and I believe that’s a beautiful moment for him,” Schroder said. We had a great time in the locker room together.

“Our goal is to win as many games as we can and to keep improving every day.”

Since Kawhi Leonard scored 24 points to begin the 2018–19 season, Schroder is the only player to score more than 20 points in his Raptors debut. On July 12, Schroder agreed to a two-year, US$26 million contract with Toronto, taking Fred VanVleet’s place as the Raptors’ starting point guard. VanVleet is a cherished veteran.

Schroder laughed when he heard the connection to Leonard, the focal point of Toronto’s 2019 championship push. “No, no, no, we’re not beginning that.” “Just happy to receive a W. 2019 saw them win the title, and all we’re attempting to do is reclaim that winning culture for ourselves.

Dennis Schroder (17) of the Toronto Raptors drives while Naz Reid (11) of the Minnesota Timberwolves defends during the first half of Wednesday’s NBA basketball action in Toronto. Nathan Denette, The Canadian Press

“Since training camp, Darko has been doing a tremendous job of instructing everyone on how to move the ball, move their bodies, and move the ball. I’m just happy that we won the game.”

Following a dismal 41-41 regular-season record and a 109-105 defeat to the Chicago Bulls in the play-in round, Toronto dismissed head coach Nick Nurse on April 21. On July 7, VanVleet, the Raptors’ veteran leader in both the locker room and on the court, signed a hefty free-agent contract with the Houston Rockets.

With 15 points on Wednesday, including six in the fourth quarter, all-star forward Pascal Siakam helped Toronto (1-0) introduce Rajakovic’s new plans, which were carried out by Schroder.

For the Raptors, Scottie Barnes scored 17 points with eight rebounds, five assists, and five blocks, and O.G. Anunoby added 20 points and six rebounds.