RJ Barrett to Miss Preseason Due to Shoulder Injury

Toronto Raptors player RJ Barrett sustained a right shoulder injury during a preseason game against the Washington Wizards due to an illegal screen by Jonas Valanciunas in the second quarter, which will cause him to miss the remainder of the preseason. The 24-year-old guard, a key offensive asset for the Raptors, will have his shoulder re-evaluated in Toronto to determine the extent of the injury and his potential availability for the start of the regular season. Barrett was previously traded from the New York Knicks and has shown promising performance averages of 21.8 points and 6.4 rebounds per game with the Raptors. The team, hoping Barrett can emerge as their next All-Star talent, faces challenges as they aim to improve from their last season's 25-57 record. Toronto's regular season opener is scheduled for October 23 against the Cleveland Cavaliers.