Toronto Raptors rookie Scottie Barnes could be close to a return.
Barnes was at Wednesday morning’s shootaround ahead of Game 3, and walked by reporters without a walking boot or a noticeable limp.
Asked if there was a chance Barnes could play Wednesday evening, coach Nick Nurse said “maybe.”
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Barnes, a finalist for NBA rookie of the year, was still listed as doubtful.
His return would be a huge boost for a Raptors squad trailing 2-0 in their opening round playoff series against the Philadelphia 76ers.
Nurse also said that Gary Trent Jr., who has been battling a non-COVID-19 illness, and Thaddeus Young (hyperextended left thumb) would play Wednesday.
Barnes was on pace for a triple double, with 15 points, 10 rebounds and eight assists, in Game 1 when Joel Embiid stepped on his ankle, sending him crashing to the floor in agony.
He sat out Game 2 in a walking boot.
This report by The Canadian Press was first published April 20, 2022.
© 2022 The Canadian Press
