The Toronto Raptors secured a 126-118 win over the Utah Jazz on Saturday night and are set to take on the Portland Trail Blazers in the second game of a back-to-back. Toronto has been on a late-season surge, winning six of its last seven games. The Raptors (24-43) now sit only behind the Chicago Bulls (28-39) in their quest for play-in spot.
Leading the charge has been franchise cornerstone Scottie Barnes, who recorded 20 points, 10 rebounds, and three assists against Utah. RJ Barrett also made his return after missing the previous game against the Philadelphia 76ers, finishing with 17 points, five assists, and two rebounds while shooting 50% from the field.
Barrett, who was traded from the New York Knicks last season, has quickly become a key player for the Raptors.
In 52 games this season, he has averaged 21.5 points, 6.5 rebounds, and 5.7 assists while shooting 47.2% from the field.
However, Toronto may now have to face Portland without its leading scorer. The Raptors' announced via their official injury report that Barrett is questionable for Sunday's game due to illness.
RJ Barrett (illness) questionable for Sunday.
— Underdog NBA (@Underdog__NBA) March 15, 2025
In addition to Barrett's status, the Raptors will also be without Immanuel Quickley, who has been ruled out for rest. The 25-year-old guard has battled injuries all season, playing just 25 games for Toronto.
Sitting 11th in the Eastern Conference and four games out of the play-in tournament, the Raptors will need a strong finish in their final 15 regular-season games to keep their postseason hopes alive.
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This story was originally published March 16, 2025 at 3:04 PM.