URGENT UPDATE: Toronto Raptors forward RJ Barrett will remain sidelined for at least another week following a platelet-rich plasma injection in his sprained right knee, the team confirmed today. This announcement comes as the Raptors prepare for a critical matchup against New York in the quarterfinals of the NBA Cup in-season tournament on Tuesday, November 28, 2023.
Barrett, who has already missed eight games due to this injury, suffered the setback on November 23 when he landed awkwardly after a dunk during the third quarter of a game. The Raptors, currently holding a record of 15-10, have struggled recently, losing five of their last six games. Barrett’s absence is a significant blow as he is averaging 19.4 points per game, the third-highest on the team, though it marks his lowest scoring rate since the 2020-21 season.
Despite the challenges, Barrett has achieved a career-best shooting rate of 50.6% from the floor this season. The Raptors are looking to bounce back against New York, and if they win, they will advance to the semifinals scheduled for Saturday, December 2, 2023. A loss would mean they face the Miami-Orlando loser at a later date yet to be determined.
As the Raptors navigate this critical stretch without Barrett, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how the team adapts and whether they can turn their fortunes around in the competitive NBA landscape.
