Collin Murray-Boyles of the Toronto Raptors has been dealing with an injury and has continued to play despite a thumb issue, Eric Koreen of The Athletic reports.
The lottery selection has nonetheless put together a strong rookie campaign, becoming a consistent contributor in Toronto’s rotation.
Through 45 appearances while averaging 22.2 minutes per game, Murray-Boyles has posted averages of 8.0 points, 5.0 rebounds, 2.0 assists, 0.9 steals, and 0.9 blocks, while providing versatile defense capable of switching across multiple positions.
Koreen notes that Murray-Boyles’ defensive impact and steady play have helped him earn meaningful minutes on a competitive team – a relatively uncommon situation for a first-year player.
The rookie said he understands the responsibility that comes with being trusted in that role and remains focused on contributing wherever needed.
“That’s why I was drafted – to make an impact,” Murray-Boyles said when asked about the rarity of a rookie playing significant minutes for a winning team. “(I) don’t take it lightly.”
Elsewhere, All-Star forward Scottie Barnes missed Sunday’s game for personal reasons, but there are no injury concerns moving forward.
According to Blake Murphy of Sportsnet.ca, Barnes is not listed on the injury report and is expected to return to the lineup Tuesday when the Raptors face Oklahoma City.
Center Jakob Poeltl, meanwhile, will sit out the matchup against the Thunder as part of injury management for a lower back strain.
The decision comes on the first night of a back-to-back set, with Toronto scheduled to play San Antonio the following day on Wednesday.
