Raptors Game Preview November 23rd, 2022
The Toronto Raptors will play their division rivals, the Brooklyn Nets, tonight. The Raptors could be without Scottie Barnes due to a left knee sprain. Barnes is averaging 10.5 points per game this season, so his absence would be felt, especially with Pascal Siakam still on the shelf. The Nets are playing on the second night of a back-to-back after losing to the Philadelphia 76ers last night. This could give the Raptors an advantage, as the Nets may not have enough energy left. The Raptors have had an unusual three-day break.
Kevin Durant is averaging 29.8 points per game, shooting 53% from the field this season. However, he is coming off an ankle injury, so it will be interesting to see how he performs tonight. Durant is still a scoring machine, but he has not been as dominant as he was in years past.
Last night, Kyrie Irving returned from his suspension, and Ben Simmons had another great game against his former team, the Philadelphia 76ers. This makes it 4 games in a row that Simmons has played well. Therefore, the table is set for the Toronto Raptors to have a difficult night against the Nets tonight.
Scottie Barnes Out?
The biggest question mark heading into tonight's game is whether or not Scottie Barnes will play. Barnes is nursing a left knee sprain, and his status for the game is up in the air. If Barnes cannot go, it will be a significant loss for the Raptors. Barnes, averaging 10.5 points per game, came off an outstanding night against the Hawks despite missing a layup at the end of regulation. His absence would give the Nets a significant advantage.
