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The Toronto Raptors have four games remaining in their 2023-24 season, and although they have won two consecutive games against the Milwaukee Bucks and Washington Wizards, their season is over. In fact, their season ended over a month ago when Scottie Barnes and Jakob Poeltl suffered hand injuries in back-to-back games, both requiring surgery and an indefinite recovery period.
Head coach Darko Rajakovic did not rule them out for the season right away, but it was always a likely outcome given that they were simply running out of games and there was no postseason push to rush them back for, especially as their losing streak grew to 15 games. But with four games left, it could be good for Poeltl and Barnes to return for a game or two — if healthy — to avoid such a long layover before next season begins.
Rajakovic kept his cards close when discussing the statuses of Barnes and Poeltl, but again did not rule out a return in the final games, according to Josh Lewenberg of TSN:
Darko Rajakovic was asked if there’s a chance that Scottie Barnes and/or Jakob Poeltl could return for any of the Raptors’ final 5 games of the season; he would neither confirm nor deny. “They’re ramping up and we’re trying to get them in the best state possible.”
— Josh Lewenberg (@JLew1050) April 7, 2024
There are certainly positives and negatives to them returning. On the good side, they won’t develop any rust from being away from the court for six months between March and September. It also would be nice for the Raptors to see their fully healthy team one time before heading into an important offseason.
However, hand injuries are tricky and re-injury risk could be high if they are rushed back. And with no meaningful games left, perhaps it’s better for the franchise long term if they stay sidelined. These are all factors in the decision the Raptors must make in the coming days.
Immanuel Quickley says chemistry is building for Raptors
Immanuel Quickley is coming off an impressive two-game stretch. He has played some solid basketball in the Raptors back-to-back wins over the Bucks and Wizards.
Quickley has missed some time recently due to personal reasons so he is trying to get back into rhythm and finish the season strong.
The guard was asked about his recent standout performances and how he is feeling, saying that chemistry is building in the locker room.
More must-reads:
- Watch: Jamal Murray beats the Lakers again to win series
- Rich Paul details Suns' 'catastrophe' following their playoff elimination
- The 'Most points in a playoff game by team' quiz
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