The Toronto Raptors’ 2024-25 season has been defined by adversity, with injuries disrupting their lineup and threatening their playoff ambitions. Despite their efforts, the team has struggled to find consistency with so many key players out of action.
Now, Scottie Barnes faces another setback with a re-aggravated ankle injury, leaving fans eager for answers. What does this mean for Barnes’ recovery and the Raptors’ season? Let’s dive into the details.
Can the Raptors keep their season alive?
Scottie Barnes Ankle Sprain vs New York Knicks
The 2024-25 season has been a relentless battle for the Toronto Raptors, who can’t seem to escape the injury plague that’s haunted them from the start.
With key players sidelined, the Raptors have yet to field their full-strength squad in the opening 25 games. The latest blow came when star forward Scottie Barnes re-injured his ankle, just 10 games after returning from a painful orbital fracture.
So, what does this fresh setback mean for Barnes’ future and the Raptors' ambitions this season? Here's an update on Barnes' ankle injury and an outlook on when he might be back in action for Toronto.
What injury is Scottie Barnes dealing with?
On Wednesday, Dec. 11, the Raptors revealed that Scottie Barnes is dealing with a sprained right ankle.
The injury occurred during the third quarter of Toronto's loss to the New York Knicks on Monday, Dec. 9. As Knicks center Karl-Anthony Towns drove to the hoop, Barnes jumped to contest the shot but landed awkwardly on Towns' foot, twisting his ankle in the process. The pain was evident as Barnes stayed down for several moments, unable to continue and ultimately leaving the game early.
Though plagued by injuries this season, Barnes has been putting up career-best numbers. In the 14 games he's played, he's averaging 20.6 points, 8.4 rebounds, and 7.4 assists per contest.
However, his presence on the court is a key factor for the Raptors' success. Toronto is 5-9 when Barnes plays, but their record plummets to 2-11 in his absence.
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Marcus Smart opens about Ja Morant's path to growth, Bittersweet Celtics reunion, and moreHow many games will Scottie Barnes miss?
Scottie Barnes underwent a re-evaluation on Wednesday, and the results indicate he’s progressing faster than anticipated. The young Toronto star is now officially listed as questionable for Thursday’s clash against Brooklyn, leaving fans hopeful for a swift return.
The final timeline for Barnes’ recovery hinges on the severity of his ankle sprain and how well he responds to rehabilitation. Wednesday’s assessment offered the Raptors’ medical team deeper insights into the injury, enabling them to refine the outlook for his comeback. As the team navigates his recovery, all eyes remain on Barnes and his potential impact once he’s back on the court.