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The Raptors have struggled through the last two weeks without major pieces in place. We know this. Finally, though — thankfully — there appears to be some light at the end of the tunnel tonight in Detroit as they prepare to take on the Pistons.
The big news tonight is all of Pascal Siakam, Fred VanVleet, Malachi Flynn, and Patrick McCaw are available to play.
VanVleet, Siakam, Flynn and McCaw are all available.
— Blake Murphy (@BlakeMurphyODC) March 17, 2021
Expect a slow introduction for these players, especially considering some were symptomatic with COVID-19 within the last fortnight. Still, it’s better than trotting out G League bench lineups and while those reserves deserve all the respect for their effort, the time is now for the Raptors to put a run together if they’re going to get back into the playoff picture.
For some extra pop, Nick Nurse is also inserting Chris Boucher into the starting lineup, which should make for some excitement along with the returning Siakam and VanVleet.
On the Pistons side, the questionable players are also getting good news, as both Rodney McGruder and Dennis Smith Jr. have been cleared to play.
Wayne Ellington inactive for a second straight game. Dennis Smith Jr. and Rodney McGruder both on the active list for the Pistons vs. Toronto. Raptors getting Siakam, VanVleet back. Anunoby still out.
— Keith Langlois (@Keith_Langlois) March 17, 2021
For more on tonight’s matchup, check out Dylan Litman’s preview from this morning. Here are the details.
Where to Watch
TSN, 7 PM ET
Lineups
Toronto — Kyle Lowry, Fred VanVleet, Norman Powell, Pascal Siakam, Chris Boucher
Detroit — Delon Wright, Rodney McGruder, Saddiq Bey, Jerami Grant, Mason Plumlee
Injuries
Toronto — OG Anunoby (out – health and safety protocols), Jalen Harris (out)
Detroit — Hamidou Diallo (out - groin), Wayne Ellington (out - adductor), Killian Hayes (out - hip), Jahlil Okafor (out - knee)