The Toronto Raptors have been crushed in each of their first two playoff games against the Philadelphia 76ers. They face an essential must-win scenario in Game 3 on Wednesday night back in Toronto. However, it appears they might have to do that without the services of some key players once again.
Scottie Barnes is doubtful for Game 3 tomorrow. Gary Trent Jr. is questionable.
— Blake Murphy (@BlakeMurphyODC) April 19, 2022
Raptors rookie star Scottie Barnes is listed as doubtful to suit up. Meanwhile, Toronto veteran Gary Trent Jr. is questionable to play in Game 3.
The Raptors entered the first-round series against the Sixers with high hopes of an upset. After all, they beat them with a few games remaining in the season and Philadelphia playing for a division title. Toronto also had the best record in the NBA this season against the league's top teams. However, after two disappointing performances in Philadelphia, the Raptors find themselves in need of a jolt.
Barnes almost posted a triple-double in Game 1, with 15 points, 10 rebounds and eight assists. But late in the game, he hurt his ankle. Despite X-rays coming back negative, there is still no timetable for his return. The Raptors offense has struggled without their rising rookie.
In Game 2, Trent Jr. went down with an injury after playing only 10 minutes. Raptors leading scorers Fred VanVleet and Pascal Siakam struggled shooting the ball, going 14-for-43 from the field in another blowout loss.
No team in NBA history has ever come from behind when trailing a series 3-0. That makes Wednesday's game crucial for Toronto. One thing working in their favor is the fact that Sixers defensive stalwart, Matisse Thybulle cannot enter Canada because of COVID regulations. But it's likely going to take a lot more than that if the Raptors are to make this a series.
Follow Us
Subscribe