Sat Jan 24 05:10:00 UTC 2026: ### Raptors Hope for Respite as Barrett and Murray-Boyles Near Return

The Story:
The Toronto Raptors, currently battling a significant injury bug, may see some relief as RJ Barrett and rookie Collin Murray-Boyles have been upgraded to questionable for their Friday game against the Portland Trail Blazers. However, Ja’Kobe Walter and Jakob Poeltl remain sidelined. Poeltl, out since December 21st, was in Toronto for a specialist appointment.

Key Points:
* RJ Barrett (ankle) and Collin Murray-Boyles (thumb) are questionable for Friday’s game.
* Ja’Kobe Walter (hip) and Jakob Poeltl (back) are ruled out.
* Barrett has missed the last seven games with a left ankle sprain, sustained on January 9th against the Boston Celtics. He is averaging 19.6 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 3.7 assists this season.
* Murray-Boyles missed the last two games with a left thumb contusion and sprain. He is averaging 7.8 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 2.0 assists this season.
* The Raptors currently sit fourth in the Eastern Conference with a 27-19 record, seven games behind the first-place Detroit Pistons.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Raptors’ playoff positioning in the Eastern Conference is being tested by the recent spate of injuries.
  • The potential return of Barrett and Murray-Boyles could provide a needed boost to the team’s offense and overall morale.
  • Poeltl’s continued absence presents a significant challenge to the Raptors’ interior defense and rebounding.
  • The team’s ability to integrate returning players while managing the minutes of those still recovering will be crucial in the coming weeks.
  • The “questionable” tag suggests the team is cautiously optimistic, but return is not certain.

    Read More

Related News: