Game Thread: Toronto Raptors vs. Utah Jazz

Let’s not sugarcoat it here: the Raptors need a win in the worst way right now. The losses over the past two weeks for Toronto, now totalling six in a row, make complete sense. Indeed, it’s hard to muster a winning attitude, let alone winning play, when it feels like half your teammates and coaches are out (and at least one has a contagious, energy-sapping virus). In truth, it straight up sucks.

Today’s clean injury report suggests the Raptors are whole again, which is great news. But we also know it will take more time for them to get back to their winning ways. There are, of course, things going on right now that are far greater than basketball. In fact, I’m amazed the Raptors can carry on at all. Yet here we are. Toronto is back in Tampa, their teammates have been restored to them off the court. Now they just have to put it all together once again on said court.

The Jazz, meanwhile, are 5-5 over their last ten games. They still have the league’s best record, but their appear to be a few weakpoints in their attack. On that note, it was reported this morning that Mike Conley would not be available tonight. Now, a reversal: Conley is apparently on hand, but Rudy Gobert, Utah’s giant Frenchman (and the NBA’s patient zero), is listed as questionable.

To Toronto, this should all be immaterial. They need to put their best foot forward and play their best possible game with whatever players are ready to go. In short, the Raptors need a win — and there’s no time like the present to get one.

Here’s the full preview from Zakaria this morning. Below are the updated details. Now, let’s watch.

Where to Watch:

Sportsnet, 8:00pm EST

Lineups:

Toronto – Fred VanVleet, Kyle Lowry, Norman Powell, OG Anunoby, Pascal Siakam

Utah – Mike Conley, Donovan Mitchell, Bojan Bogdanovic, Royce O’Neale, Rudy Gobert

Injuries:

Toronto – Nothing to report here! Amazing!

Utah – Udoka Azubuike (ankle – OUT), Rudy Gobert (hip – questionable)