The Toronto Raptors are set to face the Denver Nuggets on the road. They have won their last two games and will need all hands on deck to slow down Nikola Jokic. But while the Nuggets' All-Star is playing, the Raptors' All-Star might not be. Is Fred VanVleet playing vs. the Nuggets?

Is Fred VanVleet playing vs. Nuggets

VanVleet has enjoyed the best season of his career, making his first-ever appearance in the All-Star Game. Unfortunately, he has been slowed down recently due to knee soreness. According to TSN Sports' Josh Lewenberg, that soreness makes him listed as questionable on the Raptors' injury report.

VanVleet missed five straight games before playing in the previous two contests. With OG Anunoby being listed as out, the absence of VanVleet will be tough to overcome for Toronto. Jokic has been a one-man wrecking crew this season. With the Raptors missing two of their best defenders and scorers, it will be much tougher to both keep pace with the Nuggets and slow them down.

This season, VanVleet is averaging 21.3 points, 6.8 assists, 4.6 rebounds and 1.6 steals this season. He has been crucial to the Raptors' success as their offensive engine and stout perimeter defender.

VanVleet said that he doesn't want to make his knee issues an excuse. Although they are holding him back now, he should be able to return strongly and be ready in time for the postseason. With a record of 36-30, the Raptors are looking to get out of the play-in tournament territory. They are seventh in the Eastern Conference heading into the matchup with the Nuggets.