RJ Barrett improved the injury report against the Blazers
The Toronto Raptors perhaps they could finally get a key piece of their rotation back tonight as the team continues its journey through the Western Conference. Guard RJ Barrett has been upgraded to questionable for Friday’s match against Portland Trail Blazers after missing the last seven games with a sprained left ankle.
Barrett originally tweaked the ankle during a Jan. 9 loss to the Boston Celtics and has remained on the shelf ever since. While Barrett’s availability remains a game-time decision, the Raptors have kept the wheels turning in his absence. Toronto enters tonight’s contest at the Moda Center after a decisive 122-109 victory over the Sacramento Kings on Wednesday night.
In that win, Scotty Barnes continued his All-Star caliber campaign dropping 23 points with eight rebounds, seven assists and four steals. Forward Brandon Ingram also added 23 points, matching Barnes for the team lead, as the Raptors outscored the Kings 43-21 in a dominant third quarter.
The Raptors have relied heavily on their depth lately, and Sandro Mamukelasvili contributed a whopping 22 points and nine rebounds against Sacramento. Immanuel Quickley also orchestrated attack effectively, with 18 points and eight assists.
however, bringing back Barrett would provide a significant boost. Before the injury, the 25-year-old averaged 19.6 points per game and acted as a vital secondary playmaker on offense.
The game against the Trail Blazers will not be a cakewalk. Portland is on a four-game winning streak, led by Danny Avdia, who is averaging 26 points this season.
With Toronto at 27-19 and in fourth place in the Eastern Conference, every win counts to keep pace with the leaders. If Barrett can fit, it will simplify the rotation for the coaching staff. Whether he plays or not, Toronto is looking to extend its winning streak to three games.
2026-01-23 15:40:00
