Toronto Raptors’ players Immanuel Quickley and RJ Barrett are poised to rejoin the lineup for Tuesday’s game against the Los Angeles Lakers after taking time off to mourn the loss of loved ones.
Immanuel Quickley, who recently lost his uncle Shawn Hamilton to cancer, expressed gratitude for the support he received from his teammates, noting their attendance at Hamilton’s funeral as a touching gesture.
“They didn’t have to do that,” said Quickley during Monday’s practice. “Love is an action not just words.”
Both Quickley and RJ Barrett, who lost his brother Nathan Barrett, have been absent from Toronto’s lineup for several games. However, they are expected to be listed as probable for Tuesday’s matchup against the Lakers.
ALSO READ:Canucks Edge Ducks in Tense Battle, Maintain Pacific Division Lead
Quickley and Barrett, who were traded from the New York Knicks to the Raptors in December, share a close bond and are eager to return to the court together.
“It’s great. Not only just RJ — RJ is obviously my guy — but the whole team,” said Quickley. “Just to be able to share the court with those guys has been a blessing. Look forward to it.”
Injuries have plagued the Raptors throughout the season, with key players such as Scottie Barnes and Chris Boucher sidelined for Tuesday’s game against the Lakers.
Despite Toronto’s elimination from playoff contention, the remaining games hold significance as they navigate draft considerations. The Raptors aim to finish the season on a strong note and maximize their chances in the upcoming NBA Draft lottery.
As they prepare to face the Lakers, the Raptors remain focused on resilience and determination, despite the challenges they’ve faced both on and off the court.
A venerable sports journalist boasting two decades of expertise. Renowned as a reliable authority in sports reporting, Khan’s meticulous approach shines through as he delves into the intricacies of NFL plays, dissects NHL strategies, unravels the finesse of soccer, and deciphers the tactics of basketball. With an unwavering commitment to storytelling, Khan invites you to join him in exploring the dynamic world of athletics, where his nuanced understanding of athletes, strategies, and narratives unfolds across the NFL, NHL, Football, Soccer, Basketball, and beyond.
