BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS – APRIL 05: Neemias Queta #88 of the Boston Celtics tumbles with the ball against Jakob Poeltl #19 of the Toronto Raptors and Scottie Barnes #4 during the second half against the Toronto Raptors at TD Garden on April 05, 2026 in Boston, Massachusetts. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Jaiden Tripi/Getty Images) Getty
The Toronto Raptors shared some mixed news about injuries on Monday night. One star player is good to go while two key frontcourt players will be out.
Scottie Barnes will take to the court against the Los Angeles Clippers despite experiencing left hip soreness. However, starting center Jakob Poeltl has been ruled out for a second game in a row.
Toronto will also miss Kawhi Leonard, who was set to face his former Clippers teammates for the first time since returning to the Raptors.
This news comes as Toronto aims to break a two-game losing streak while playing back-to-back nights.
Scottie Barnes Cleared; Jakob Poeltl Out
Getty Neemias Queta of the Boston Celtics tumbles with the ball against Jakob Poeltl of the Toronto Raptors and Scottie Barnes during the second half against the Toronto Raptors at TD Garden on April 05, 2026 in Boston, Massachusetts.
Barnes was initially listed as questionable for Monday’s game at Intuit Dome due to left hip soreness.
However, shortly before tipoff, it was confirmed that he would play.
“Scottie Barnes is AVAILABLE. Jakob Poeltl is OUT,” said a statement from their official public relations account.
Barnes’ return is particularly significant given how well he’s been playing lately.
The 25-year-old forward is averaging a career-best 24.8 points along with 6.7 rebounds and 4.5 assists across six games so far this season.
He led his team with a total of 29 points during Sunday’s close match against the Los Angeles Lakers where they lost 131-125 but nearly completed an impressive comeback late in the game.
The Raptors cut down a deficit from 16 points to just five within minutes toward game end which forced Los Angeles to bring back their starters into play.
Poeletl remains out due to left shoulder bursitis after also missing Sunday’s match versus Los Angeles.
This gives Trayce Jackson-Davis another chance as he started in place of Poeltl last game while Collin Murray-Boyles adds more depth up front.
Kawhi Leonard Misses His First Meeting With Clippers
Getty Kawhi Leonard of the Toronto Raptors reacts against the Chicago Bulls in the second half at Scotiabank Arena on October 21, 2026 in Toronto, Canada.
Leonard’s absence carries extra weight this time around.
The veteran forward had been looking forward to facing off against his former team for his first regular-season matchup since being traded from Los Angeles over summer.
But swelling in his left knee means he won’t get that opportunity just yet.
Kawhi has missed four straight games now as treatment continues; previously announced plans are still set for re-evaluation later.
No serious injuries were found according to medical exams but considering past issues with injury history, the Raptors are taking things slowly.
Kawhi played seven seasons with L. A., even leading Toronto into their first NBA championship back in ’19.
His return generated lots of buzz earlier this summer but unfortunately injuries have kept him limited to only two appearances so far.
Fans hoping for an exciting reunion at Intuit Dome will have wait longer than expected now.
Raptors Aim To Break Losing Streak Against Struggling Clippers
>Toronto heads into Monday’s contest sporting a record standing at three wins versus three losses after falling short recently losing three out four games total thus far.т>The absence created by Leonard weighs heavier making way for increased offensive duties upon both Barnes along side RJ Barrett combined together alongside Immanuel Quickley bringing their best efforts needed now too! Barrett managed strong output finishing up scoring twenty-two points complemented adding ten rebounds faced off those Lakers while Jamison Battle chipped-in scoring twenty coming off bench nicely handled overall! Meanwhile The struggling Clipers themselves join ranks losing five consecutive outings following initial win opener! Los Angeles records sit currently one victory up showing one win five losses overall following defeat clocked coming Sunday evening marked final score reaching124-112 taken down thanks Golden State Warrior matchup ended tightly contested throughout! With both Leonard sidelined plus also missing big man Poeletl , we’ll look forward seeing another stellar performance put forth from Scottie if Raptor squad wants regain some much-needed momentum! His presence surely lifts spirits although overcoming such absences upfront won’t come easy aiming prevent third straight loss ahead tipping-off soon… This article was originally on HEAVYThe post Raptors Update on Barnes and Poeltl Ahead of Clippers Match appeared first on HEAVY.
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