The Toronto Raptors are set to clash with the Minnesota Timberwolves on Sunday night, a game that’s guaranteed to shatter one team’s perfect start to the year, as both squads roll in with a spotless 2-0 record. But hold up, because Toronto’s challenge just got a whole lot tougher: Kawhi Leonard is officially out.
Leonard’s Knee Sidelined and What It Means
Kawhi Leonard will miss tonight’s action for the Toronto Raptors, all thanks to some left knee swelling. This is his first absence of the season after he played in the opening two matches, which, let’s be real, is a massive blow when you are facing another undefeated team. He made his big return to the Scotiabank Arena in the offseason, and he’s been absolutely integral to Toronto’s plans so far this season. Leonard has been averaging 19.5 points and 7.5 rebounds, giving them that much-needed veteran presence and scoring punch.
Yeah, those aren’t the monster numbers he put up last season with the Los Angeles Clippers. But it’s super early in the season, right? The guy has also got a serious upgrade in depth to share the court with, so maybe those numbers were never gonna be what they were before. Still, you can’t replace a talent like Kawhi.
Who Steps Up for Darko Rajakovic?
With Leonard sidelined, head coach Darko Rajakovic has got some choices to make on the wing. He’s got guys like Allen Graves and Jamison Battle to pick from. Graves was the 19th pick in the 2026 NBA Draft, but his first two career games haven’t exactly been lights out, with him averaging 3.5 points and 3.5 rebounds across 13 minutes on the court. Can he make a significant leap tonight when the team needs him most? Battle is another option, but the pressure is officially on these guys to step up big time.
This game kicks off at 7:00 p.m. EST. It’s a huge test for the Raptors’ depth, especially facing a T-Wolves team that’s also flying high with a perfect record. Can they keep their flawless start alive without their star, or will Minnesota be the one to hand them their first L of the year? We’re about to find out.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by The Sporting News.
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