The Raptors lost 94-117 at Minnesota on Sunday with Kawhi Leonard out and Scottie Barnes scoreless on 0-for-12. It was the first defeat of a 2-1 start, and it came on a calendar date that has treated Toronto well, with four wins and two losses in the six games on record.
A Familiar Dependence
Toronto has always measured itself against its best player. Vince Carter led it to the playoffs in 2000, 2001 and 2002, including the first series win in franchise history. Chris Bosh carried the next era until he left in July 2010. Masai Ujiri then built around DeMar DeRozan and Kyle Lowry before trading for Leonard, who won Finals MVP in the 2019 title run. Leonard returned this September through a trade and an extension. At 35, he is day-to-day with a left knee problem, with an estimated return of October 28. TSN's Lewenberg wrote that Toronto must be better prepared for his absences than it was in Minnesota.
Barnes Without a Basket
Barnes has been the face of the franchise since Leonard left, and the game tested that. He finished minus-27 in 28 minutes, the worst mark on the team. TSN's Lewenberg noted that it was only the second time Barnes had been held scoreless, after a game in April 2023. He did collect five steals and blocks, per that account. Three nights earlier he had 28 points and 14 rebounds at Washington, so the swing is sharp. Sportsnet asked how worried Toronto should be about his struggles without Leonard. One game is thin evidence, but the offense found no other primary option.
The Young Guards Answer
Walter was the bright spot. His five threes came on eight attempts, and his minutes have jumped from 21.5 to 33.7 a night. Allen Graves, the 20-year-old rookie, added 11 points, six rebounds and four assists in 20 minutes. RJ Barrett shot 9-for-21 for 20 points. Jamal Shead went 2-for-8 in 21 minutes. The same date two years ago also brought a loss in Minnesota, 101-112. This time the Raptors are fourth at 2-1 and host Orlando on October 28 and October 30, with Leonard's status the first question.
When is Kawhi Leonard expected back for the Raptors?
He is listed day-to-day with a left knee problem, with an estimated return of October 28, when Toronto hosts the Magic.
How did the Raptors lose to the Timberwolves, and where do they stand?
Minnesota won 117-94 on October 25, leading by as many as 32. Toronto is 2-1 and fourth in the East.
