Scottie Barnes Out Several Weeks with Ankle Injury

Toronto Raptors forward Scottie Barnes is expected to miss several weeks due to a sprained right ankle sustained during a game against the New York Knicks. The injury occurred when he landed awkwardly while attempting to block a shot from Karl-Anthony Towns, resulting in immediate assistance from teammates as he was unable to put weight on his foot. Initial X-rays showed no fractures, but the team is awaiting further evaluation. Barnes, who is averaging 20.6 points, 8.4 rebounds, and 7.4 assists this season, previously missed 11 games due to an orbital fracture, during which the Raptors struggled with a 2-9 record. In response to his injury, the Raptors signed AJ Lawson to a two-way deal to bolster their roster. The team's playoff aspirations are at risk as they face the challenge of competing without their star player.