The Toronto Raptors will head to Minneapolis Thursday without Collin Murray-Boyles, who is sidelined with a left thumb sprain, while Brandon Ingram is listed as questionable for the game against the Minnesota Timberwolves. Ingram has been a key scorer for Toronto this season, averaging 22 points per game.
Minnesota will be missing Joe Ingles for personal reasons, along with G-League call-ups Enrique Freeman, Zyon Pullin, and Rocco Zikarsky.
The Raptors have struggled on the road recently, dropping a 111-95 home loss to the New York Knicks while rebounding with a 134-125 win over the Washington Wizards on the road.
Toronto’s Scottie Barnes leads the team with 19 points, 8 rebounds, and 5.5 assists per game. RJ Barrett, who averages 18.1 points, could see increased responsibility if Ingram is sidelined.
Minnesota’s Anthony Edwards is averaging a team-high 29.7 points per game, while Julius Randle contributes 21.5 points and 6.9 rebounds. Rudy Gobert’s league-leading field goal percentage (.700) and 11.5 rebounds per game will be crucial in controlling the paint.
The Timberwolves have won four consecutive games heading into Thursday’s matchup, positioning them fourth in the Western Conference.
This season, Toronto has struggled against Minnesota, losing 128-126 at home in February. The Raptors’ fifth-place standing in the Eastern Conference faces a test against a surging Timberwolves squad looking to consolidate a playoff spot.
Thursday’s tipoff is scheduled for 7:00 PM CT at the Target Center in Minneapolis.
