Game Thread: Raptors vs. Hornets updates, TV info & more

Only the coolest people spend their Friday night watching the Raptors playing the Hornets along with their favourite Raptors blog friends. Each and everyone one of you holds a special place in our hearts.

Tonight’s game will at least offer a little intrigue as a pair of previously ailing Raptors will make their returns to the lineup. Patrick McCaw is recovered from the illness that cause him to miss a few games. And in a bit of injury luck that feels out of place in this Raptors season, Norman Powell came in on the very early end of the recovery timeline for his broken finger. He’ll make his return and start tonight, because in true 2019-20 Raptors fashion, Fred VanVleet will miss the game with a bum shoulder after taking a hard Giannis screen on Tuesday. Serge Ibaka was listed as questionable last night with knee soreness, and will be out tonight as well.

Per Nick Nurse, Powell joins the usual trio of Kyle Lowry, Pascal Siakam and OG Anunoby in the starting five, with Rondae Hollis-Jefferson getting his second start at centre. Hollis-Jefferson vs. Bismack Biyombo will be the fan-friendliest player match-up in recent Raps history.

Keep tabs on the game all night with us here. And see below for other pertinent details.

Where to Watch?

Sportsnet One @ 7:30pm ET

Lineups

Charlotte — Terry Rozier, Devonte’ Graham, Miles Bridges, PJ Washington, Cody Zeller

Toronto — Kyle Lowry, Norman Powell, OG Anunoby, Pascal Siakam, Rondae Hollis-Jefferson

Injuries

Charlotte — Malik Monk (out — suspension)

Toronto — Serge Ibaka (out — knee soreness), Fred VanVleet (out — shoulder soreness), Marc Gasol (out — hamstring), Dewan Hernandez (out — ankle)