Toronto lost for the first time this season, 94-117 at Minnesota, trailing by as many as 32 points. Kawhi Leonard sat out with left knee swelling, and the Raptors never found a way to replace what he gives them.
A Game Lost Early
Minnesota led 32-21 after one quarter and 90-62 after three, taking the third 35-15. The Raptors never led by more than one. Toronto still sits at 2-1 as the fourth seed, level with the Pacers at sixth, so the standing has not suffered yet.
The Zero That Stands Out
Scottie Barnes finished minus-27 in 28 minutes. TSN reported he went 0-for-12 and was scoreless, only the second time in his career. Walter did the opposite: 22 points on 5-of-8 from three, the best of Toronto's night. RJ Barrett shot 9-for-21 for 20, and Allen Graves added 11 points and 6 rebounds off the bench.
Two Dates, One Knee
Leonard and Nate Bittle both carry an estimated return of October 28, when the Magic visit. Toronto plays them again October 30 in the Emirates NBA Cup, then goes to the Lakers on November 1 and the Clippers on November 2. TSN's view was that Leonard will miss games and the team must be ready for it. Can this roster score without him on a night when Barnes does not?
Why did Kawhi Leonard miss the Raptors' game in Minnesota?
Toronto kept him out with left knee swelling, according to the Associated Press. His estimated return is October 28 against the Magic.
When do the Raptors play next?
Toronto hosts the Magic on Wednesday, October 28, and again on October 30 in the Emirates NBA Cup. The Raptors are 2-1 and hold the fourth seed.
