The Toronto Raptors have received widespread criticism for what many believe to be a flawed approach to team-building. Thankfully, the Raptors' seemingly radical approach to roster construction is justified by the success the Houston Rockets have experienced under similar circumstances. Even before it landed Kevin Durant, Houston had embraced a surprising strategy for escaping the depths of despair. If that comes to fruition, then the Raptors could run a fascinating small-ball lineup with Quickley, Barrett, Ingram, Barnes, and Murray-Boyles. It's by no means a foolproof strategy, but what the Raptors are building is at least somewhat justified by the success that the Rockets experienced in 2025-26.