RJ Barrett Nearing Return as Raptors Look to Regain Their Rhythm
The Toronto Raptors just got a much-needed boost: RJ Barrett is officially ramping up his return-to-play activities this week after receiving a PRP injection to treat a knee sprain. Barrett has been sidelined since November 24, and while the team hasn’t given a specific return date, this update signals that the Raptors’ second-leading scorer is inching closer to a return to game action.
Barrett’s absence has been felt-plain and simple. The Raptors have gone 3-6 since he last played, a stretch that’s exposed the team’s lack of consistent offensive firepower without him on the floor.
His last appearance came in a 119-109 win on November 23, which marked the team’s 12th victory of the season. Since then, Toronto has struggled to find rhythm, especially in late-game situations where Barrett’s shot creation and physicality on the wing are sorely missed.
With Barrett back on the court soon-likely starting with practice reps-it’s a chance for the Raptors to stabilize a rotation that’s been in flux. His scoring, rebounding, and ability to defend multiple positions are key to how Toronto wants to play, especially in a system that relies on versatility and pace.
There’s more encouraging news on the injury front. Rookie forward Jamison Battle is listed as probable after missing the last two games with a rolled ankle.
Battle had just started carving out a spot in the rotation, logging double-digit minutes in three straight games before the injury. While he’s not a headline name yet, his development has been one of the quieter bright spots for Toronto this season.
Getting him back on the floor adds another option for head coach Darko Rajaković as he looks for consistent contributors off the bench.
Meanwhile, Jonathan Mogbo will be available for tonight’s matchup against the Miami Heat. Mogbo has been bouncing between the Raptors and their G League affiliate, Raptors 905, and while he’s not a fixture in the rotation, he’s shown flashes when called upon. Typically, his minutes come when there’s a need behind Jakob Poeltl or Sandro Mamukelashvili in the frontcourt, but his athleticism and energy make him a useful plug-and-play piece when injuries hit.
As for the rest of the Raptors’ two-way players, they remain with the 905, continuing to develop and stay ready for a call-up if needed.
Bottom line: Toronto’s getting healthier, and just in time. With Barrett nearing a return and Battle likely back in the mix, the Raptors are starting to look a little more like themselves again. And with the Eastern Conference as competitive as ever, every piece matters.