MY ACCOUNT
The Toronto Raptors will have to cope without star rookie Scottie Barnes against the Philadelphia 76ers, although the forward said he is already “feeling better”.
Barnes sprained his left ankle in the fourth quarter of Game 1 in the first-round playoff series, a 131-111 defeat in Philadelphia.
Raptors coach Nick Nurse subsequently acknowledged the fourth overall pick was unlikely to play in Game 2, and he was officially ruled out at shootaround on Tuesday.
Gary Trent Jr., who is ill, and Thaddeus Young, with an injured thumb, were also set to miss out, but Barnes’ absence was particularly damaging after a superb season.
The 20-year-old is a Rookie of the Year finalist after averaging 15.3 points and 7.5 rebounds in the regular season, ranking third and second respectively among rookies.
Barnes had 15 points, 10 rebounds and eight assists in his playoff debut and at least assured Raptors fans he is on the road to recovery, even if there remains no return date.
“I thought it was going to be bad, man,” Barnes said. “I hit the ground and I was like, ‘Damn, it’s just the beginning, just getting started’.
“But afterward, I was just still trying to have positive thoughts and keep myself into it.
“I don’t know [when he will return]. Might be soon. We just have to see. Feeling better, though, each and every day.”
