Description: Toronto center Jonas Valanciunas (strained neck) has missed the past two Raptors' games and is questionable for Tuesday's game against Atlanta.
Insight: Valanciunas suffered a whiplash-like injury Wednesday night and went to the hospital as a precaution. Amir Johnson would likely see most of the minutes at center, with Rudy Gay shifting to power forward if Valanciunas doesn't play. When Johnson stays out of foul trouble he can be a productive fantasy option at center.
Description: Raptors forward Quincy Acy had 10 points, nine rebounds, one steal and three blocks in 35 minutes off the bench Friday night against the Bulls.
Insight: With Jonas Valanciunas, Terrence Ross and Landry Fields out of action, the Raptors only played eight players Friday night.
Description: Toronto center Jonas Valanciunas (neck) will miss Friday's game against Chicago.
Insight: Valanciunas suffered a whiplash-like injury Wednesday night and went to the hospital as a precaution. Amir Johnson will likely see most of the minutes at center, with Rudy Gay shifting to power forward and DeMar DeRozan and Alan Anderson taking up most of the minutes at the two wing spots.
Description: Raptors guard Terrence Ross hobbled out of the gym after Thursday's practice with an ice wrap after tweaking his ankle, according to Josh Lewenberg of TSN.ca.
Insight: His status for Friday's game is unknown. Ross is averaging 12 ppg over the last two games but he is too inconsistent for fantasy owners.
Description: Toronto center Jonas Valanciunas' neck injury isn't as serious as the team had originally thought and he'll be a game-time decision Friday against Chicago.
Insight: According to TSN's Josh Lewenberg, Valanciunas has been wearing a soft brace around his neck. With just four games left in the season, the Raptors have little incentive to use Valanciunas if he's anything less than 100 percent. We'd ignore the game-time distinction and move forward as if Valanciunas won't play on Friday.
Description: Toronto center Jonas Valanciunas (neck) will be reevaluated Thursday in Toronto.
Insight: Valanciunas suffered a whiplash-like injury in the fourth quarter Tuesday. He was fitted for a neck guard courtside and was taken to the hospital as a precaution. Toronto Media Relations said Valanciunas suffered a "flexion extension injury."
Description: Toronto center Jonas Valanciunas was taken to the hospital after suffering a neck injury during Tuesday's game.
Insight: According to Toronto Sun writer Mike Ganter, Valanciunas suffered a whiplash-like injury in the fourth quarter Tuesday. He was fitted for a neck guard courtside and was taken to the hospital as a precaution.
Description: Rudy Gay made the start for Toronto Friday against Minnesota. He had been questionable because of a sprained ankle.
Insight: Gay (18.0 ppg, 6.1 rpg) has been battling back injuries for the last two months in addition to the ankle injury but he's only missed three games. Even at less than 100 percent Gay is still worth starting in most fantasy leagues.
Description: Add a sprained ankle to the list of injuries Raptors forward Rudy Gay is dealing with and he's listed as questionable for Friday's game against Minnesota.
Insight: The injury occurred during Wednesday night's win over the Wizards. He's also been struggling with a back injury for most of the second half. Gay has been adament about playing through all the bumps and bruises so we're guessing he'll try to give it a go Friday night in Minnesota.
Description: Add a sprained ankle to the list of injuries Raptors forward Rudy Gay is dealing with.
Insight: The injury occurred during Wednesday night's win over the Wizards. He's also been struggling with a back injury for most of the second half. Gay has been adament about playing through all the bumps and bruises so we're guessing he'll try to give it a go Friday night in Minnesota.
Description: DeMar DeRozan led the Raptors with 25 points Wednesday in a win over the Wizards.
Insight: As usual, DeRozan contributed plenty of points and not much else. He finished with one rebound, one assist and one steal in 37 minutes of court time. DeRozan is about as one-dimensional as they come.
Description: Toronto center Jonas Valanciunas had one of his better games of the year Wednesday against Washington (24 points, 10 rebounds, two blocks).
Insight: The rookie from Lithuania is averaging 17.2 ppg and 9.2 rpg over his last six games. Fantasy owners could get used to that.
Description: Raptors small forward Rudy Gay netted a game-high 34 points Monday in a loss to Detroit.
Insight: Gay shot 13-of-18 from the field including an incredible 4-of-4 from three-point range. As long as the back injury he's been playing through doesn't get any worse, Gay should be one of the more productive players in fantasy hoops going forward.
Description: Raptors swingman Landry Fields will sit out Monday's game against the Pistons.
Insight: It looks like Fields is having elbow issues again. He's not much of a fantasy asset, having produced just one double-digit scoring game in his last 28 outings.
Description: Raptors center Jonas Valanciunas had 18 points, 10 rebounds and two blocks in 36:34 Sunday versus Washington.
Insight: The Raptors have finally unleashed the 20-year-old center, giving him at least 30 minutes in each of the last six games. He has scored in double figures in eight straight games and posted two straight double-doubles. Don't hesitate to pick him up.
Description: Raptors center Jonas Valanciunas played 39 minutes and had a 14/13 double-double with four assists and four blocks Friday against the Pistons.
Insight: The Raptors have finally turned the 20-year-old center loose. He has averaged 31 minutes, 13.3 points, 7.9 rebounds and 1.1 blocks over his last nine games. He's shooting 69 percent in that span.
Description: A left leg contusion did not prevent Amir Johnson from providing 20 points, eight rebounds, two assists and two blocks in 37:34 Friday versus Detroit.
Insight: Johnson suffered the injury Wednesday but he is one of the toughest players in the league and most injuries won't keep him out of the lineup.
Description: Toronto forward Amir Johnson (leg) will travel with the team for its two-game road trip and will be a game-time call Friday against Detroit.
Insight: Johnson suffered a left leg contusion Wednesday. Johnson usually plays through most injuries so we expect him to be out there on Friday.
Description: Raptors center Jonas Valanciunas had 19 points, eight rebounds and one block in 31:34 Wednesday versus Atlanta.
Insight: Valanciunas is averaging 12.8 points, 6.7 rebounds and 0.9 blocks over his last 10 games. He has played at least 30 minutes in six of his last eight.
Description: Toronto forward Rudy Gay (back) had 15 points, 12 rebounds, three assists and two steals Wednesday against the Hawks but he shot just 6-of-14.
Insight: Gay is trying to play through a painful back injury and will probably be day-to-day for the rest of the season.
Description: Toronto forward Amir Johnson sustained a left leg contusion in the third quarter Wednesday. X-rays were negative but he won't return, according to the Raptors Twitter account.
Insight: Johnson started and played 20 minutes in the game, which is a good sign considering he only played 17.5 mpg over the last two games in a back-to-back against the small-ball Knicks.
Description: Toronto guard Kyle Lowry will get the start Wednesday against Atlanta. He had been a game-decision because of a sore knee.
Insight: Overall, Lowry has underachieved in his first season with the Raptors. Despite his struggles, Lowry's versatility still makes him valuable to fantasy owners (12.2 ppg, 5.9 apg, 4.8 rpg, 1.4 spg).
Description: Toronto forward Rudy Gay will be in action Wednesday against the Hawks.
Insight: Gay is trying to play through a painful back injury. You'll probably have to check on his status before every game the rest of the season and there's still a chance the Raptors could shut him down if the pain gets to be too much for him.
Description: Toronto small forward Rudy Gay (back) participated in the Wednesday morning shootaround and will be a game-time decision.
Insight: Gay's been dealing with back issues on and off for the last month and the injury and has prompted the team to consider shutting him down. Alan Anderson would see the big minutes if Gay can't play against the Hawks.
Description: Toronto point guard Kyle Lowry is still listed as questionable for Wednesday's game against Atlanta with a sore knee.
Insight: Most fantasy owners thought that Lowry's numbers would improve after the team sent starting PG Jose Calderon to Detroit in a trade, but that hasn't been the case. Lowry is averaging just 10.6 ppg, 5..4 rpg, 5.8 apg over the last 17 games after averaging 12.9 ppg, 4.5 rpg, 5.9 apg in his first 39 games.
Description: Toronto small forward Rudy Gay (back) is making progress, according to the Toronto Sun.
Insight: Gay's been dealing with back issues on and off for the last month and the injury and has prompted the team to consider shutting him down. He's officially listed as day-to-day.
Description: Toronto point guard Kyle Lowry is questionable for Wednesday's game against Atlanta with a sore knee.
Insight: Most fantasy owners thought that Lowry's numbers would improve after the team sent starting PG Jose Calderon to Detroit in a trade, but that hasn't been the case. Lowry is averaging just 10.6 ppg, 5..4 rpg, 5.8 apg over the last 17 games after averaging 12.9 ppg, 4.5 rpg, 5.9 apg in his first 39 games.
Description: Toronto forward Amir Johnson played just 35 minutes total in a back-to-back versus New York on Friday and Saturday.
Insight: Johnson was averaging 14.2 points, 11.3 rebounds, 1.2 steals and 1.8 blocks in the nine games prior to Friday so his lack of playing time the last two games could just be a matter of coach Dwane Casey going small against Carmelo Anthony and the Knicks.
Description: Raptors guard Terrence Ross started and had 13 points, six rebounds and three treys in 31 minutes Saturday against the Knicks.
Insight: Alan Anderson also played 31 minutes off the bench and had 14 points on 5-of-14 shooting. Both players should have some decent fantasy value with Rudy Gay (back) out of the lineup.
Description: Raptors guard Terrence Ross will start Saturday in place of the injured Rudy Gay (back).
Insight: Ross had a few double-digit scoring games in the middle of March but he hasn't been a consistent fantasy option. Perhaps the injury to Gay will help both Ross and Alan Anderson. The latter scored 35 points with six triples Friday against the Knicks.
Description: Toronto small forward Rudy Gay re-injured his back Friday against New York and will not travel with the team to Madison Square Garden for the rematch.
Insight: Gay's been dealing with back issues on and off for the last month and the injury doesn't seem to be getting better. It's possible the Raptors could shut him down for the season if this keeps up. Alan Anderson took over as Toronto's scorer, shooting 11-of-18 for 35 points.
Description: Toronto swingman Alan Anderson netted a career-high 35 points Friday against New York.
Insight: Anderson logged 36 minutes in the five-point loss, his heaviest workload since January 23rd against Miami. If Rudy Gay's back continues to cause him pain, Anderson could take over as the starter at small forward.
Description: Toronto small forward Rudy Gay re-injured his back Friday against New York.
Insight: Alan Anderson has come on to take his place and Gay is done for the night. He finished with just four points in 14 minutes. Gay's been dealing with back issues on and off for the last month and the injury doesn't seem to be getting better. It's possible the Raptors could shut him down for the season if this keeps up.
Description: Toronto point guard Kyle Lowry followed up his zero-point (0-7 FG) performance Sunday with 18 points on 6-of-13 shooting Wednesday against the Bobcats.
Insight: Lowry added five assists, seven rebounds, one steal, one block and one three. He had made 5-of-24 from the field and averaged 4.0 ppg over his previous three games.
Description: Raptors center Jonas Valanciunas had 18 points and eight rebounds in 31 minutes Wednesday versus Charlotte.
Insight: Valanciunas also scored 18 points on Sunday and has scored in double figures in six of the last seven games. He has no challengers for the starting center job.
Description: Raptors forward Rudy Gay is averaging 26.7 points and shooting 55.6 percent from the field over his last three games.
Insight: Gay had 25 points and eight rebounds in 40 minutes Wednesday against Charlotte. So much for that back injury that had Toronto considering a shutdown.
Description: Raptors guard Terrence Ross has scored in double figures in four of his last five games. He had 12 points and four rebounds in 27 minutes Sunday against the Heat.
Insight: With Toronto out of a playoff spot, the rookie has been getting more playing time. The presence of Alan Anderson and Landry Fields limits his value but he does have upside for owners in deep leagues.
Description: Raptors center Jonas Valanciunas had 18 points and seven rebounds in 29 minutes Sunday against the Heat.
Insight: Valanciunas made 7-of-8 from the field and 4-of-4 from the free-throw line. The young center has double-digit points in five of his last six games.
Description: Raptors small forward Rudy Gay lit up the Heat Sunday afternoon in Toronto (27 points, eight rebounds).
Insight: Gay's back must be feeling better. After failing to reach the 20-point threshold in three straight games, Gay has now scored 25 or more in each of his last two appearances. This time it wasn't enough, as the Raptors fell by a final score of 108-91.
Description: Toronto forward Amir Johnson put together another solid outing Sunday against the Heat (18 points, 18 rebounds).
Insight: A perfect storm of injuries and trades has finally allowed Johnson to reach his full fantasy potential. He's averaging 12.2 ppg and 9.4 rpg in 14 games since the All-Star break. Before the break, Johnson had only been averaging 9.7 ppg with 7.1 boards per contest.
Description: Rudy Gay led the Raptors to victory Friday against Charlotte with 28 points on 11-of-16 shooting in 36 minutes.
Insight: So much for that back injury. Friday represents Gay's best shooting game since joining the Raptors. He shot 50 percent in his first game with Toronto and has been below that in every game since then prior to Friday.
Description: Raptors power forward Amir Johnson had 12 points, 21 rebounds, two steals and three blocks Friday against Charlotte.
Insight: With Andrea Bargnani (elbow) out for the season, Johnson is finally the clear-cut No. 1 power forward on the team. He should be owned in all leagues.
Description: Raptors forward Rudy Gay was a full participant in practice Thursday. Gay has been bothered by back spasms over the past few weeks. SOURCE: TSN
Insight: The implication is that Gay (17.9 ppg, 6.1 rpg) will continue to play through the injury. Gay contributed 19 points on 7-of-19 shooting Wednesday against Boston.
Description: Raptors guard Sebastian Telfair has been ejected from Wednesday night's game against the Celtics.
Insight: Telfair was hit with two techincal fouls over a three minute span late in the third quarter. He'll finish the night with five points in 11 minutes. John Lucas (5.9 ppg) has come on to replace him.
Description: According to NBA.com, Toronto forward Andrea Bargnani will miss the rest of the season with a right elbow sprain.
Insight: Bargnani looked like he was on the cusp of superstardom after his brilliant 2010-11 campaign (21.4 ppg). This year he posted a mediocre 12.7 ppg and completely forgot how to rebound (career-worst 3.7 boards per game). At age 27, Bargnani still has plenty of time to turn things around. With that said, Bargnani's future certainly doesn't look as bright as it did a few years ago.
Description: Toronto small forward Rudy Gay is officially active for Wednesday's game in Boston.
Insight: Gay has been dealing with back spasms on and off for the past couple of weeks. He won't be at 100 percent but Gay (17.9 ppg, 6.1 rpg) should still be effective enough to warrant a start in most fantasy settings.
Description: Raptors forward Rudy Gay (back) is probable for Wednesday's game against the Celtics. SOURCE: Gary Washburn, Boston Globe
Insight: That's great news after the Toronto Sun reported Tuesday that doctors didn't know what was wrong with Gay's back and that he could potentially be shut down for the season.
Description: Raptors forward Andrea Bargnani will miss Wednesday's game against Boston because of his strained right elbow and could miss the remainder of the season, according to a Toronto Star report.
Insight: Bargnani (12.7 ppg) strained his right elbow Friday night in Los Angeles. Amir Johnson is likely to get the start in Bargnani's place. He put up 17 points and 16 rebounds on Sunday making him a viable option.
Description: Raptors forward Rudy Gay (back) will be a game-time decision Wednesday against the Boston Celtics.
Insight: According to Mike Ganter of the Toronto Sun, "lots of doctors (are) talking to each other right now and nothing to report on" when it comes to Gay's injury. Raptors coach Dwane Casey hinted Monday that Gay could be shut down for the season if his back injury doesn't improve. Terrence Ross, who started Sunday and scored 14 points with five rebounds and three treys, and Alan Anderson are the next men up for more minutes.
Description: Toronto coach Dwane Casey hinted that forward Rudy Gay could be shut down for the season if his back injury doesn't improve, but Gay wants to continue to play. He's listed as probable for Wednesday's game against Boston.
Insight: Shutting Gay down early could be the best decision long term, especially since the Raptors have virtually no shot at making the playoffs this season. Stay tuned.
Description: Toronto surged past Cleveland Sunday on the strength of 17 points and 16 rebounds from power forward Amir Johnson.
Insight: Johnson (39 minutes) saw some extra playing time Sunday with Andrea Bargnani and Rudy Gay both out of the lineup. He's proven to be a solid contributor when given the opportunity. If Bargnani and Gay aren't able to suit up Wednesday in Boston, Johnson will definitely be worth a start.
Description: Toronto coach Dwane Casey hinted that forward Rudy Gay could be shut down for the season if his back injury doesn't improve. SOURCE: NBA.com
Insight: Shutting Gay down early could be the best decision long term, especially since the Raptors have virtually no shot at making the playoffs this season. Gay said he'll try to play through the injury so we'll have to see what comes of this.
Description: Raptors forward Rudy Gay missed Sunday's game versus Cleveland because of back spasms.
Insight: Gay (17.9 ppg, 6.1 rpg) missed a game last week with a similar injury. NBA slam dunk champ Terrence Ross drew the start. Ross (5.9 ppg) would probably stand to gain the most fantasy significance if this injury keeps Gay sidelined for an extended period.
Description: Raptors forward Andrea Bargnani is out for Sunday's game against Cleveland.
Insight: Bargnani (12.7 ppg) strained his right elbow Friday night in Los Angeles. Amir Johnson (10.0 ppg, 7.1 rpg) is likely to get the start in Bargnani's place.
Description: Toronto forward Andrea Bargnani missed Monday's shootaround after having a bad reaction to a medication and will be a game-time decision, according to the team's website.
Insight: Bargnani is only a shell of the fantasy player we have known in the past. He averaged just 5.6 ppg, 1.8 rpg and 0.6 apg in nine February games while coming off the bench. He should not be in any fantasy lineups.
Description: Toronto small forward Rudy Gay, who was a late scratch Saturday versus Milwaukee, took part in the morning shootaround and is expected to play Monday versus Golden State, according to the Toronto Raptors website.
Insight: Gay was originally expected to play through the injury. Landry Fields started in Gay's place, played 48 minutes (it was an OT game) and posted 15 points, seven rebounds, four assists and four steals. Fields should return to his backup role and have no fantasy value.
Description: Toronto small forward Rudy Gay was a late scratch Saturday versus Milwaukee and is questionable for Monday versus Golden State. He's dealing with a sore back.
Insight: Gay was originally expected to play through the injury. Landry Fields started in Gay's place, played 48 minutes (it was an OT game) and posted 15 points, seven rebounds, four assists and four steals. Fields will only have continuing value if Gay misses Monday's game.
Description: Raptors point guard Kyle Lowry posted a triple-double Saturday against Milwaukee (10 points, 10 rebounds and 10 assists).
Insight: Lowry could have taken a nap on the defensive end but he was just as active on that side of the floor, producing five steals in 36 minutes of action. We'll give Lowry a pass on the six turnovers because he was so dominant in the other fantasy categories on Saturday.
Description: Toronto small forward Rudy Gay was a late scratch Saturday versus Milwaukee. He's out with a sore back.
Insight: This is just the third game Gay has missed this season and his first absence since joining the Raptors at the start of February. Landry Fields (4.6 ppg, 4.3 rpg) was chosen to start in Gay's place.
Description: Rudy Gay's back has been an issue lately but the Toronto forward is still expected to play Saturday against the Bucks.
Insight: Gay is averaging an excellent 20.5 ppg in 13 contests since joining the Raptors in early February. He's probably not going to be at 100 percent but Gay should still be worth a start in most fantasy formats.
Description: Raptors shooting guard DeMar DeRozan led all scorers Wednesday against the Cavaliers with 34 points on 10-of-19 shooting (14-15 FT).
Insight: DeRozan's game has been taken to new heights since Rudy Gay joined the team. He's averaging 19.8 ppg on 14.9 field goal attempts in 38 mpg over 12 games with Gay. He is attempting 7.5 free throws per game and making 6.7 (.893) in that span. He averaged 4.7 free throws per game prior to the Gay trade.
Description: Raptors small forward Rudy Gay had fantasy owners shaking their heads after another brutal outing Monday against the Wizards.
Insight: Gay (17.0 ppg) shot a horrendous 1-for-11 from the field and finished with just seven points in 42 minutes. The 26-year-old has been a fantasy see-saw lately, alternating between spectacular and terrible performances. If the trend continues he should have another good game Wednesday against Cleveland, though we wouldn't be as optimistic about Friday's matchup with Indiana.
Description: Toronto shooting guard DeMar DeRozan tossed in a game-high 25 points Monday in a loss to Washington.
Insight: DeRozan didn't contribute much in terms of rebounding (four) or assists (only one) but 25 points is still an impressive accomplishment. He's averaging 18.5 ppg in 11 games since the start of February.
Description: Rudy Gay rebounded from a tough outing Wednesday by netting 32 points in a win over the Knicks Friday night in Toronto.
Insight: That's a season-high for Gay, who entered the night averaging 17.7 ppg in his first 42 appearances. He's clearly the Raptors' No. 1 scoring option and fantasy owners can expect good production out of him the rest of this season.
Description: The Suns dealt backup point guard Sebastian Telfair to the Raptors on Thursday.
Insight: Phoenix will receive rarely-used center Hamed Haddadi (1.2 ppg) as part of the deal. Telfair (6.0 ppg) will back up Kyle Lowry (12.8 ppg, 6.0 apg) at point guard. Telfair's fantasy value in Toronto should be about the same as it was when he was in Phoenix.
Description: Toronto forward Andrea Bargnani put up a goose egg with an 0-for-4 effort Wednesday against the Grizzlies.
Insight: Bargnani is only playing 22 minutes per game since returning from his elbow injury. He's made just one 3-pointer in that span. While a trade would be best for Bargnani and the rest of Toronto's big men, it doesn't look like Bargnani is going to be traded until the summer.
Description: Raptors guard DeMar DeRozan scored 24 points on 9-of-18 shooting (6-7 FT) with three rebounds, three assists and three steals in 36 minutes Tuesday versus the Wizards.
Insight: DeRozan's fantasy value has actually increased since Rudy Gay joined the team. The two wing players have dominated Toronto's shots and Gay's presence has allowed DeRozan to get to the foul line more than 7.5 times per game over his last seven contests.
Description: Raptors center Amir Johnson will start at the power forward position according to a Toronto Star report. Landry Fields started there in the last game.
Insight: Jonas Valanciunas and Johnson give the Raptors a good rebounding front line. As a starter Johnson is averaging 14.3 ppg and 10.2 rpg which are fantasy-worthy numbers.
Description: Doug Smith of the Toronto Star reports that Raptors forward Andrea Bargnani probably won't be traded until this summer.
Insight: Plenty of offers have been on the table but nothing that would make the Raptors consider parting with Bargnani. The 27-year-old's 14.8 ppg scoring average is his lowest since 2007-08.
Description: Toronto shooting guard Terrence Ross earned a victory in the Sprite All-Star Slam Dunk Contest Saturday night at All-Star weekend.
Insight: Ross (6.4 ppg) paid tribute to Vince Carter by throwing it down off the side of the backboard before coming back for a between the legs slam on his final dunk of the contest. Ross received 58 percent of the fan vote with the other 42 percent going to last year's dunk champ Jeremy Evans.
Description: Fox Sports Ohio reports that the Raptors and 76ers are discussing a trade that would send forward Andrea Bargnani to Philadelphia.
Insight: Spencer Hawes would be part of the deal as well. Bargnani (3.0 ppg in his last two contests) has been buried on the Raptors' bench recently and would probably play a much larger role with Philadelphia.
Description: The Raptors are shopping Andrea Bargnani to multiple teams.
Insight: The Bulls have offered Carlos Boozer to the Raptors for Bargnani, and the Sixers are also discussing a trade with Toronto. We'd be surprised if Bargnani isn't dealt before the deadline next Thursday. If a trade brings back another big man, it would make things unpredictable for Jonas Valanciunas and Amir Johnson.
Description: After only taking 19 shots in Rudy Gay's first four games with the team, Raptors swingman Alan Anderson has attempted 35 over the last three. He made 10-of-16 with six threes for a team-high 26 points in 30 minutes Wednesday against the Knicks.
Insight: The Gay trade didn't look good for Anderson's fantasy value since both Gay and DeMar DeRozan play upwards of 37 minutes per game but Anderson has played 30 minutes in two of the last three games as the team has mixed and matched with its rotation. It's going to be hard to trust any Raptors but Gay, DeRozan and Kyle Lowry on a game-to-game basis, however.
Description: Toronto forward Rudy Gay made just 4-of-21 from the field, including 0-of-5 from 3-point range for 11 points Wednesday against the Knicks.
Insight: Gay has been averaging more than 20 shots per game since joining the Raptors but they don't do fantasy owners any good if he misses most of them. The forward continues to fire away from 3-point land (4.4 per game with Toronto) despite making just 19.4 percent of them with the Raptors and 28.8 percent overall.
Description: Raptors center Jonas Valanciunas only played 13 minutes and missed his only shot of the night on Wednesday against the Knicks.
Insight: Valanciunas got into foul trouble, picking up four personals in his 13 minutes. That's going to be the only thing that holds Valanciunas back from posting a nightly double-double.
Description: Toronto guard Kyle Lowry has been ejected from Wednesday night's game against the Knicks.
Insight: Lowry (12 points on 3-of-8 shooting before his ejection) picked up his second technical foul for arguing with an official. The Raptors will be forced to use John Lucas (5.4 ppg) at point guard for the rest of the night.
Description: Raptors guard DeMar DeRozan had a team-high 22 points on 8-of-18 shooting with eight rebounds, three assists, two steals and one block Tuesday against the Nuggets.
Insight: DeRozan has attempted 16 or more shots in five of six games since Rudy Gay joined the team.
Description: Raptors forward Andrea Bargnani (illness) will be available for Tuesday's game. SOURCE: Holly MacKenzie, Sportsnet.ca
Insight: Bargnani has made 12-of-20 from the field in two games since returning from an elbow injury despite going 0-4 from 3-point range. Bargnani will continue to split big man minutes with Amir Johnson and Jonas Valanciunas, but all three could be relevant in fantasy leagues if they get 25-30 minutes each.
Description: Raptors forward Andrea Bargnani (illness) is questionable for Tuesday's game against Denver.
Insight: Bargnani has made 12-of-20 from the field in two games since returning from an elbow injury despite going 0-4 from 3-point range. Amir Johnson, Jonas Valanciunas and Aaron Gray handle the big man minutes when Bargnani is out, but Johnson is the only reliable fantasy option.
Description: Raptors center Jonas Valanciunas started his first game since breaking his finger on Dec. 21 and put up a double-double (11 points, 10 rebounds) with two blocks in 34 minutes Sunday against the Hornets.
Insight: Valanciunas has had two straight double-doubles with a pair of blocks in both games. Even with Andrea Bargnani out with the flu, Aaron Gray got just two minutes. Valanciunas should be added in most formats.
Description: Raptors point guard Kyle Lowry rebounded from a 2-point effort Friday against Indiana with 14 points, 10 assists, five rebounds, two steals and two treys Sunday versus the Hornets.
Insight: Lowry owners no longer have to worry about the team scaling back his minutes when he has an off game. The starting point guard job belongs to him with Jose Calderon in Detroit.
Description: Raptors forward Andrea Bargnani (illness) will miss Sunday's game.
Insight: Bargnani has made 12-of-20 from the field in two games since returning from an elbow injury despite going 0-4 from 3-point range. Amir Johnson, Jonas Valanciunas and Aaron Gray will handle the big man minutes for Toronto on Sunday.
Description: Toronto small forward Landry Fields (back spasms) will return to action Sunday against the Hornets. SOURCE: NBA.com
Insight: Fields just isn't getting the playing time, even when healthy, to be of any value to fantasy owners as he's stuck behind Rudy Gay, DeMar DeRozan and Alan Anderson on the swingman depth chart.
Description: Raptors center Jonas Valanciunas will move into the starting lineup Sunday against the Pistons, with Aaron Gray shifting back to the bench.
Insight: Valanciunas put up 14 points and 13 boards Friday, his best performance since returning from a broken finger on Feb. 1. Even with Valanciunas getting more time, Amir Johnson still played 36 minutes and had a 14-14 double-double Friday night. Toronto might have enough minutes at the four and five to satisfy Andrea Bargnani, Valanciunas and Johnson fantasy owners, as long as Casey keeps Gray to 10-12 minutes.
Description: Raptors center Jonas Valanciunas had 14 points, 13 rebounds and two blocks in 26 minutes Friday night at Indiana. According to Josh Lewenberg of TSN 1050 Radio, Raptors coach Dwane Casey wouldn't commit to Valanciunas as a starter for Sunday's game but said that it's something the team is "looking at."
Insight: It was Valanciunas' best performance since returning from a broken finger four games ago. He played just 20 minutes total his first three games back. Even with Valanciunas getting more time, Amir Johnson still played 36 minutes and had a 14-14 double-double Friday night. Toronto might have enough minutes at the four and five to satisfy Andrea Bargnani, Valanciunas and Johnson fantasy owners, as long as Casey keeps Aaron Gray to 10-12 minutes.
Description: Toronto forward Rudy Gay got off to a slow start but was able to finish with 23 points after scoring 17 in the final quarter of regulation.
Insight: The move north of the border is already paying dividends for fantasy owners as Gay (17.8 ppg) is averaging 24.3 ppg in four games as a Raptor. We'd expect Gay to have another strong game Sunday against New Orleans.
Description: Raptors guard Terrence Ross and Jonas Valanciunas played just 6:35 combined Wednesday night against Boston. Raptors coach Dwane Casey said the two players aren't being punished. He just wants them to learn and get reps in practice before they get extensive playing time. SOURCE: Josh Lewenberg, TSN 1050 Radio
Insight: Alan Anderson is getting all the backup swingman minutes with Landry Fields (back) out and Terrence Ross in a learning stage. However, with DeMar Derozan at SG and Rudy Gay at SF, there just aren't many reserve minutes to go around at those positions.
Description: Toronto small forward Rudy Gay tallied 25 points and 12 rebounds Wednesday in a loss to the Celtics.
Insight: Gay got off to a hot start but faded late, knocking down just one of his eight shots in the fourth quarter. Gay, a 30.1 percent three-point shooter for the season, is now 2-of-12 from that distance over his last two games (16.7 percent).
Description: Raptors forward Andrea Bargnani (elbow) will make his return Wednesday off the bench against the Celtics. He hasn't played since Dec. 10. SOURCE: Doug Smith, Toronto Star
Insight: Bargnani's return from a serious elbow injury with give Toronto three capable big men in Bargnani, Jonas Valanciunas and Amir Johnson. We like Johnson's production but he will probably get fewer minutes unless Bargnani is traded.
Description: Toronto small forward Landry Fields will miss Wednesday's game against Boston due to back spasms.
Insight: Fields just isn't getting the playing time, even when healthy, to be of any value to fantasy owners as he's stuck behind both Rudy Gay and Alan Anderson on the depth chart.
Description: Raptors forward Andrea Bargnani (elbow) is likely to return to action Wednesday for the first time since Dec. 10 after making it through the morning shootaround. He'll be a game-time decision.
Insight: Bargnani went through a physical practice Tuesday and looked strong. His return with give Toronto three capable big men in Bargnani, Jonas Valanciunas and Amir Johnson. We like Johnson's production but he will probably get fewer minutes unless Bargnani is traded.
Description: Raptors forward Andrea Bargnani (elbow) is likely to return to action Wednesday for the first time since Dec. 10. SOURCE: National Post
Insight: Bargnani went through a physical practice Tuesday and looked strong. His return with give Toronto three capable big men in Bargnani, Jonas Valanciunas and Amir Johnson, with Aaron Gray also getting minutes. We like Johnson's production but he will probably get fewer minutes unless Bargnani is traded.
Description: Raptors guard DeMar DeRozan made 6-of-17 from the field and 14-of-14 from the foul line for 27 points Sunday against the Heat.
Insight: It seems like a bad fit on paper since they are similar players but DeRozan has taken 17 shots in each of Toronto's first two games with Rudy Gay. It's a long shot that this will continue, however, since Kyle Lowry and Andrea Bargnani also like to shoot a lot. We'd sell high on DeRozan.
Description: Raptors forward Rudy Gay scored 29 points Sunday against the Heat in his first start with the team. He added four rebounds, two assists, three steals, one block and one triple.
Insight: Gay's Toronto tenure is off to a rousing start: 49 points in two games. If he continues to get 20-plus shots per game like he did Sunday his value will go through the roof, but that might be difficult unless the team trades Andrea Bargnani.
Description: In Rudy Gay's first game with the team, Raptors swingman Alan Anderson only played 13 minutes and shot 0-of-4.
Insight: As we predicted, Anderson's fantasy value has evaporated overnight now that Gay is in town. With Gay and DeRozan, two heavy-minute wing players, in the starting lineup, there will be little time for Anderson to make an impact.
Description: Raptors guard DeMar DeRozan had 19 points, seven assists, two rebounds, one steal, one block and two threes while making 8-of-17 from the field in 34 minutes Friday.
Insight: DeRozan is expected to start at shooting guard once Rudy Gay moves into the starting lineup. He's averaging 15 shots per game but that could fall when Andrea Bargnani returns and joins Kyle Lowry, DeRozan, Gay and Amir Johnson/Jonas Valanciunas in the starting five. Even if Bargnani is traded, the presence of a similar wing player in Gay should cause DeRozan's fantasy value to decline slightly.
Description: After proclaiming that the Raptors were his team following the Jose Calderon trade, point guard Kyle Lowry went out and put up just three points on 1-of-6 shooting. He added eight assists, five rebounds, two steals and a triple in 32 minutes.
Insight: The 32 minutes are nice, but we were expecting more in the scoring department from Lowry in his first game without Calderon.
Description: Raptors center Amir Johnson made 7-of-9 from the field and 5-of-8 from the foul line for 19 points with 16 rebounds, one steal and one block in 37 minutes Friday against the Clippers.
Insight: Jonas Valanciunas returned from an extended absence Friday and played 13 minutes. He'll eventually get more time but it might not matter to Johnson's value if Andrea Bargnani is traded. In any case, Johnson is going to get plenty of time at the four and five to make a difference in fantasy leagues.
Description: Raptors forward Andrea Bargnani (elbow) will not play Friday. SOURCE: Holly MacKenzie, Sportsnet.ca
Insight: Bargnani hasn't played since December due to an elbow injury. When he is able to return, he should start at power forward with either Jonas Valanciunas or Amir Johnson at center. That is, until Toronto finds a taker for him.
Description: Raptors center Jonas Valanciunas (broken finger) will play Friday for the first time since fracturing his finger on Dec. 21. SOURCE: Holly MacKenzie, Sportsnet.ca
Insight: Valanciunas will come off the bench behind Aaron Gray and Amir Johnson. The latter has been a force since Valanciunas went down and should continue to get solid minutes with Ed Davis having been dealt to Memphis.
Description: Though Raptors forward Rudy Gay will make his debut with the team Friday, he will come off the bench.
Insight: Gay was traded from Memphis to Toronto Wednesday. He'll eventually start at small forward with DeMar DeRozan moving to shooting guard once he has a chance to practice with the team. Alan Anderson's days as a fantasy-relevant swingman could be over since the Raptors also have Landry Fields and Terrence Ross on the bench.
Description: Rudy Gay played 33 minutes and scored 20 points (8-16 FG) with three rebounds, one assist, one steal, one block and three threes off the bench in his Raptors debut Friday against the Clippers.
Insight: Gay came off the bench because he didn't have a chance to practice with the team yet. He'll eventually start and should see a slight bump in value as Toronto's No. 1 scorer.
Description: Forward Rudy Gay wasn't expected to arrive in Toronto in time to be ready for Friday's game but apparently he will make his debut against the Clippers. SOURCE: Matt Devlin, Raptors play-by-play announcer
Insight: Gay was traded from Memphis to Toronto Wednesday. He'll start at small forward with DeMar DeRozan moving to shooting guard. Alan Anderson's days as a fantasy-relevant swingman could be over since the Raptors also have Landry Fields and Terrence Ross on the bench.
Description: Raptors center Jonas Valanciunas (broken finger) took part in the Friday morning shootaround and could possibly play Friday night.
Insight: Amir Johnson has averaged 13.1 ppg and 8.5 rpg in January and is a better fantasy option than Valanciunas, but the return of Valanciunas will reduce both players to non-fantasy worthy value status.
Description: Forward Rudy Gay will not make his Raptors debut Friday. SOURCE: Eric Koreen, National Post
Insight: Gay was traded from Memphis to Toronto Wednesday but he won't arrive in Toronto until Friday afternoon. Alan Anderson gets to be relevant in fantasy leagues for one more game.
Description: Raptors GM Bryan Colangelo is still shopping big man Andrea Bargnani, even after trading Ed Davis and Jose Calderon for Memphis' Rudy Gay. SOURCE: Toronto Star
Insight: "The situation with Andrea is a unique one, he’s a great talent and he’s done a lot for the organization but sometimes a change of address is not bad," Colangelo said. "I’m not saying he’s asked for a trade but he certainly would not fight or resist a situation if it was the right situation." Bargnani is still sidelined with an elbow injury but he could return over the weekend. Fantasy owners should hold onto Amir Johnson, who is guaranteed plenty of minutes even after Bargnani comes back since Jonas Valanciunas is still out.
Description: Raptors guard DeMar DeRozan scored 23 points on 8-of-16 shooting with four rebounds and two steals Wednesday at Atlanta.
Insight: With Rudy Gay coming from Memphis to Toronto in a trade, Wednesday might be the last time this season DeRozan takes that many shots. His fantasy arrow is pointing down.
Description: Raptors center Amir Johnson had just six points on 3-of-12 shooting Wednesday against the Hawks but he pulled down 14 boards and blocked four shots in 39 minutes.
Insight: With the trade of Ed Davis to Memphis, Johnson is guaranteed a ton of minutes until Andrea Bargnani and Jonas Valanciunas return from injuries. Johnson has shown the ability to be a fantasy force this season when he gets playing time so he's a must-own.
Description: Raptors swingman Alan Anderson is averaging 14.8 points, 2.5 rebounds, 2.2 assists, 1.2 steals and 2.1 threes in 27 minutes over his last 21 games as a backup to the shooting guard and small forward positions, but Toronto's acquisition of Rudy Gay could put an end to his usefulness in fantasy leagues.
Insight: Gay is a heavy minutes and shots player and that won't change in Toronto. Anderson will have to split minutes with Landry Fields and Terrence Ross off the bench, and there will be fewer minutes to go around with Gay starting.
Description: Toronto guard Kyle Lowry is the big winner in the Rudy Gay trade. With Jose Calderon gone in the deal, Lowry will re-assume the starting point guard job.
Insight: Lowry showed his potential as a starter when he put up 14.3 points, 6.6 assists, 4.6 rebounds, 1.6 steals and 1.7 threes with Houston last season. He's producing similar numbers in 15 starts this season. Now it's just a matter of Lowry staying healthy, which might be tough.
Description: The Grizzlies have traded forward Rudy Gay and center Hamed Haddad to the Toronto Raptors for Ed Davis and Jose Calderon. SOURCE: NBA.com
Insight: The trade was announced earlier but now it appears to be official. Gay will slot in as the Raptors starting small forward with DeMar DeRozan moving to shooting guard. Neither player is a good outside shooter so it remains to be seen how Toronto's offense will function.
Description: Raptors point guard Jose Calderon is close to going to Detroit as part of a three-team trade that also includes Memphis.
Insight: Details are still coming in about a deal that will send Rudy Gay to Toronto and Ed Davis to Memphis. Calderon will go to the Pistons with Tayshaun Prince and other pieces also going to the Grizzlies. Calderon's immediate fantasy value won't change much since he will still be sharing point guard duties.
Description: Toronto guard Kyle Lowry (back) is expected to play Wednesday. SOURCE: Ryan Wolstat, Toronto Sun
Insight: The injury-prone point guard is backing up Jose Calderon but the team is shopping the latter. Lowry showed his potential as a starter when he put up 14.3 points, 6.6 assists, 4.6 rebounds, 1.6 steals and 1.7 threes with Houston last season. He's producing similar numbers in 15 starts this season.
Description: The Raptors are looking for a third team to take on Jose Calderon as part of a potential deal for Grizzlies forward Rudy Gay. SOURCE: Adrian Wojnarowski, Yahoo! Sports
Insight: The Raptors have made Calderon available and plan to keep Kyle Lowry. Fantasy owners need to hold onto Lowry and ride out this frustrating bench situation for now.
Description: Toronto guard Kyle Lowry is questionable for Wednesday's game against Atlanta. He's been suffering from back spasms.
Insight: Lowry has already missed 14 games this season so fantasy owners should know the drill by now. Jose Calderon (11.1 ppg, 7.4 apg) will be a solid fantasy option as the team's primary ball handler.
Description: Toronto center Aaron Gray broke loose for 22 points and 10 rebounds Monday in a loss to Golden State.
Insight: Head coach Dwane Casey needed somebody who could contain Andrew Bogut in the low post so the physical Gray made his eighth start of the season. Not only did Gray produce his best offensive output of the season but he also held Bogut to just 12 points. Gray is only averaging 10 minutes a game this season, so he won't have many nights like the one he had on Monday.
Description: Toronto guard/forward Landry Fields didn't come out for the start of the second half Monday against Golden State. He's dealing with flulike symptoms.
Insight: Fields' night is over. He had the flu over the weekend and it doesn't look like it ever went away. Give Fields credit for trying to play through the illness. If Fields gets the right treatment he could be available for Wednesday's game in Atlanta.
Description: Toronto guard Kyle Lowry won't be available for Monday's game against Golden State. He's been suffering from back spasms.
Insight: Lowry has already missed 13 games this season so fantasy owners should know the drill by now. Jose Calderon (11.1 ppg, 7.4 apg), as usual, will be a strong play tonight against a struggling Warriors team (lost seven of their last 11 games).
Description: Raptors point guard Kyle Lowry didn't practice Sunday due to a tight back, but is probable for Monday's game against Golden State.
Insight: Lowry is coming off the bench and averaging 11.2 ppg, 3.4 rpg, 5.9 apg as a reserve. Hopefully a team with a point guard void (hello Boston) will trade for him or Toronto starter Jose Calderon and both would end up being better fantasy options.
Description: Raptors center Jonas Valanciunas (broken finger) could be back as soon as Feb 2, according to a Toronto Sun report.
Insight: Amir Johnson has averaged 14.0 ppg and 8.3 rpg in january and is a better fantasy option than Valanciunas, but the return of Valanciunas will reduce both players to non-fantasy worthy value status.
Description: Raptors point guard Kyle Lowry didn't practice Sunday due to a tight back. His status for Monday's game is uncertain. SOURCE: Josh Lewenberg, TSN 1050 Radio
Insight: Lowry isn't doing enough to validate a starting spot in fantasy lineups. Hopefully a team with a point guard void will trade for him or Toronto starter Jose Calderon.
Description: A tight back limited Toronto guard Kyle Lowry to 22 minutes on Saturday. SOURCE: Eric Koreen, National Post
Insight: Lowry will break out for 20-plus points every so often to keep himself on fantasy rosters but he really isn't doing enough to validate a starting spot in fantasy lineups. A trade from Toronto to a team he can start for would be best for his value.
Description: Raptors swingman Landry Fields (flu) will play Saturday against Cleveland.
Insight: Fields has only played 19 games this season and averaged just 5.1 ppg. While Fields rebounds well for a perimeter player (5.4 rpg), he isn't likely to make his way onto many fantasy rosters this season.
Description: Ryan Wolstat of the Toronto Sun says Raptors PF/C Andrea Bargnani (elbow) is still a week or two away from returning. He's taking shots pre-game, but still has elbow pain.
Insight: There is a possibility he won't get his starting job back anyway. The team is 4-17 in games Bargnani has played. He could end up being trade bait, which would be good news for owners of Ed Davis (9.5 ppg, 6.6 rpg) and Amir Johnson (9.4 ppg, 6.5 rpg).
Description: Raptors coach Dwane Casey said that neither Andrea Bargnani (elbow) nor Jonas Valanciunas (finger) are close to returning. SOURCE: Ryan Wolstat, Toronto Sun
Insight: That's good news for owners of Ed Davis and Amir Johnson. Both players have done a great job filling in at power forward and center with Bargnani and Valanciunas out of the lineup.
Description: Though Toronto guard Kyle Lowry is no longer on the injury report, he's not played up to expectations in January.
Insight: Lowry has posted single-digit scoring in four of eight January games, including a zero-point effort in 17 minutes versus Milwaukee. For the month he's averaging 11.1 ppg, 2.8 rpg, 5.9 apg versus his season average of 14.2 ppg, 4.5 rpb, 5.9 apg. He's been sharing the spot with Jose Calderon and his minutes this month are at a season low 23.4 per game.
Description: Toronto point guard Jose Calderon led the Raptors to a win over the Lakers Sunday with a team-high 22 points with nine assists, two rebounds and one 3-pointer. Toronto had lost four straight.
Insight: Calderon played 30 minutes to Kyle Lowry's 18. Lowry has played well lately but the team always goes back to Calderon when it needs a win.
Description: Raptors swingman Landry Fields scored a season-high 18 points on 8-of-11 shooting with 10 rebounds and four steals Sunday against the Lakers.
Insight: Fields has only played 17 games this season and averaged just 4.2 ppg prior to Sunday. While Fields rebounds well for a perimeter player (5.5 rpg), he isn't likely to make his way onto many fantasy rosters this season.
Description: Raptors guard Terrence Ross scored in double figures Friday for the first time since Jan. 2. Ross made 7-of-14 from the field and 4-of-5 from behind the arc for 18 points with seven rebounds and one steal in 25 minutes.
Insight: Ross has been dealing with a sprained ankle that has limited him to 14 points over his last seven games. As a reserve shooting guard, Ross' fantasy-worthy performances are going to be too sporadic to warrant a roster spot.
Description: Raptors forward-center Ed Davis double-doubled with 18 points and 10 rebounds Friday against the Sixers. Davis added six assists, one steal and two blocks.
Insight: Davis is averaging 12.6 points, 8.1 rebounds, 0.6 steals and 0.9 blocks in 19 games since joining the starting lineup.
Description: Raptors PF-C Amir Johnson will move back into the starting lineup Friday against Philadelphia.
Insight: Johnson averaged 18.3 points, 10.8 rebounds, 2.8 assists, 1.5 steals and 2.0 blocks in four starts from Jan. 6-13 but was returned to the bench the last two games.
Description: Raptors guard DeMar DeRozan has seen his fantasy statistics drop during his eight January games.
Insight: DeRozan is averaging just 15.9 ppg, 3.3 rpg, 1.4 apg this month down from 18.0 ppg, 4.9 rpg and 2.1 apg in December and similar numbers in November. He is shooting just .404 from the field and is 1-for-10 from three-point range this month. Hopefully it's just a temporary lull in a long season.
Description: Raptors guard Alan Anderson burned the Bulls for 27 points on Wednesday night.
Insight: Anderson may have been able to inflict even more damage if he hadn't fouled out in the final minute of overtime. The 27 points matches a season-high for Anderson, who is now averaging 12 ppg.
Description: Toronto guard Kyle Lowry gobbled up 26 points Wednesday in a 107-105 loss to the Bulls.
Insight: Lowry was a question mark to play on Wednesday because of a sprained ankle. So much for that. Fantasy owners must be secretly hoping Lowry sprains his ankle more often if this is the result.
Description: Kyle Lowry will play through a sprained ankle Wednesday when the Raptors host Chicago.
Insight: Lowry suffered the injury early in Tuesday's game at Brooklyn but returned to have an excellent fourth quarter (19 points). He's losing minutes to Jose Calderon but he's still talented enough to warrant a roster spot in most fantasy leagues.
Description: Toronto point guard Jose Calderon will play through a hip pointer Wednesday night against the Bulls.
Insight: The addition of Kyle Lowry was supposed to diminish Calderon's effectiveness but instead, the opposite has occurred. Calderon is shooting a career-high 43.5 percent from three-point land and his 10.7 ppg average this season is his highest since 2008-09.
Description: Raptors guard-forward Alan Anderson left Tuesday's game with a chipped tooth and is questionable for Wednesday's game against Chicago.
Insight: Anderson's hot streak from early January is over. After scoring 20 and 27 points in back-to-back games, he's only averaged 8.0 ppg over his last four contests. He's back to being a fantasy non-factor.
Description: After unexpectedly returning from a sprained ankle, Kyle Lowry finished Tuesday's game with a team-high 21 points on 5-of-7 shooting (4-5 3PT), two assists and zero turnovers.
Insight: Lowry has been injury plagued all season so it was good to see him get back out there rather quickly after being ruled out initially. The point guard's performance on Tuesday is proof positive that you cannot give up on him just yet.
Description: Raptors guard-forward Alan Anderson left Tuesday's game with a chipped tooth.
Insight: Anderson was 0-of-4 in just nine minutes of play on Tuesday but he came into Tuesday's game averaging 14.5 ppg with 2.3 threes and 1.2 steals over his previous 13 contests.
Description: Updating a previous report, Toronto point guard Kyle Lowry returned from a sprained left ankle in the fourth quarter of Tuesday's game.
Insight: Lowry has been injury plagued all season so it's good to see him get back out there rather quickly after being ruled out initially. The point guard will have to play well over the next few weeks if he wants to overtake starter Jose Calderon.
Description: Toronto point guard Kyle Lowry left Tuesday's game with a sprained left ankle and will not return.
Insight: Lowry just can't catch a break. He sprained the other ankle four games into the season and partially tore his triceps in December. During the second injury he was surpassed on the point guard depth chart by Jose Calderon and has been playing poorly off the bench since returning.
Description: Toronto point guard Kyle Lowry missed Monday's practice to attend a funeral but is expected to play Tuesday. SOURCE: Toronto Star
Insight: Lowry has fallen behind Jose Calderon in the point guard rotation and has been playing passively. "We need him in attack mode, but making the right basketball play," Raptors coach Dwane Casey said Monday. "Not forcing the pass, not forcing the shot; just playing basketball." Lowry has attempted fewer than 10 shots in six of his last eight games and only scored 11 points total over his last three games.
Description: Raptors point guard Jose Calderon (calf) turned in a full practice Monday and is expected to play Tuesday. SOURCE: Toronto Star
Insight: Calderon has started the last 15 games and averaged 12.1 points, 9.5 assists, 3.2 rebounds and 1.3 turnovers. He has turned it over just five times in the last eight games and has clearly distanced himself from Kyle Lowry as the starting point guard.
Description: Raptors PF-C Amir Johnson is probable for Tuesday's game against Brooklyn. He sprained his right ankle Sunday but returned to the game and played 44 minutes.
Insight: Johnson is averaging 18.3 points, 10.8 rebounds, 2.8 assists, 1.5 steals and 2.0 blocks in four games since joining the starting lineup due to the Raptors' multiple injuries in their frontcourt. He's a must-add if he's still available.
Description: Raptors point guard Jose Calderon netted 21 points with eight assists, two boards, one steal, three triples and zero turnovers Sunday against the Bucks.
Insight: Calderon has started the last 15 games and averaged 12.1 points, 9.5 assists, 3.2 rebounds and 1.3 turnovers. He has turned it over just five times in the last eight games and has clearly distanced himself from Kyle Lowry as the starting point guard. Lowry had zero points Sunday and has scored 11 points over his last three games.
Description: Raptors PF-C Amir Johnson left Sunday's game with a sprained ankle but later returned after halftime and finished with 22 points, 14 rebounds, four assists, three steals and two blocks.
Insight: Johnson is averaging 18.3 points, 10.8 rebounds, 2.8 assists, 1.5 steals and 2.0 blocks in four games since joining the starting lineup. He's a must-add if he's still available.
Description: Raptors forward-center Ed Davis was one of four Toronto starters to score at least 20 points Sunday. Davis had 20 points with 12 rebounds, two assists and one steal.
Insight: Davis has been given a larger role in the wake of injuries to Andrea Bargnani and Jonas Valanciunas. Davis came into Sunday's game averaging 12.1 points, 7.5 rebounds, 1.7 assists, 0.7 steals and 0.9 blocks in his previous 15 games. Fantasy owners should hit the free agent wire in search of Davis and his teammate Amir Johnson.
Description: Raptors PF-C Amir Johnson left Sunday's game with a sprained ankle but later returned after halftime.
Insight: Johnson averaged 17 points, 9.7 rebounds, 2.3 assists, 1.0 steals and 2.0 blocks after joining the starting lineup three games ago. The Raptors big man is as tough as they come, but we'll have to see how his ankle responds once the adrenaline wears off after the game.
Description: Raptors PF-C Amir Johnson left Sunday's game with an ankle injury after landing on another player's foot. Johnson was in noticeably pain and couldn't put any weight on his ankle as he hobbled to the locker room.
Insight: Johnson averaged 17 points, 9.7 rebounds, 2.3 assists, 1.0 steals and 2.0 blocks after joining the starting lineup three games ago. He had 12 points, six rebounds, two steals and a block in 20 minutes Sunday before exiting.
Description: Raptors PF-C Amir Johnson is averaging 17 points, 9.7 rebounds, 2.3 assists, 1.0 steals and 2.0 blocks in three games since joining the starting lineup.
Insight: Johnson has replaced Aaron Gray, who started five straight games from Dec. 26 to Jan. 4 but only averaged 13 mpg in that stretch. He should continue to start alongside Ed Davis at least until Andrea Bargnani (elbow) and Jonas Valanciunas (finger) return in a few weeks.
Description: Raptors guard Terrence Ross (ankle) returned to action on Friday but played just 15 minutes. Raptors coach Dwane Casey said Ross' ankle is still sore but he will likely continue to play through it. SOURCE: Josh Lewenberg, Raptors beat reporter
Insight: Ross sprained his ankle last week and missed a game. Unfortunately, he's behind Landry Fields and Alan Anderson in the shooting guard rotation.
Description: The Globe & Mail reports that Raptors forward/center Andrea Bargnani could come off the bench when he returns from an elbow injury later this month.
Insight: Ed Davis (10.8 ppg, 7.2 rpg since the start of December) has done a nice job filling in for Bargnani and it looks like he might continue to get starter's minutes even after Bargnani comes back. All signs point to Bargnani being dealt before next month's trade deadline.
Description: The Toronto Sun reports that the Raptors will likely use their amnesty clause to release forward Linas Kleiza after the season.
Insight: Kleiza (7.4 ppg) has missed Toronto's last five games because of a knee issue and at this point, it's fair to wonder if he'll ever be fully healthy. Kleiza's 33.3 field goal percentage this season is the lowest of his career.
Description: Multiple injuries to the Raptors' lineup has allowed swingman Alan Anderson the playing time to thrive. Anderson is coming off a 33-minute, 27-point performance against OKC on Sunday.
Insight: Anderson is averaging 23.5 ppg over his last two games. He's worth taking a flier on.
Description: Toronto guard Terrence Ross, who sprained his left ankle late in Sunday's loss to Oklahoma City, is doubtful for Wednesday's game against Philadelphia.
Insight: Ross averages just 7.0 ppg, but did put up 26 against Portland recently. If he can't play then Alan Anderson should see plenty of playing time and could be a viable fantasy option. Anderson scored a career-high 27 points in 33 minutes against the Thunder on Sunday.
Description: Raptors center Aaron Gray (2.1 ppg, 2.3 rpg) is probable for Wednesday's game against Philadelphia due to flu-like symptoms.
Insight: Toronto is running out of big men and could use Gray back on the floor. Power forward Andrea Bargnani is out for a while as is starting center Jonas Valanciunas. The team has been using Ed Davis and Amir Johnson and Gray will provide much-needed depth, though he has little fantasy value.
Description: Toronto guard Terrence Ross sprained his ankle late in Sunday's loss to Oklahoma City.
Insight: Ross scored a career-high 26 points Wednesday in a win against Portland. In two games since, he's made just one shot for a total of three points. Such is life in the strange, unforgiving world of fantasy basketball.
Description: Raptors swingman Alan Anderson added to his hot streak with a 27-point effort on Sunday following a 20-point night on Friday night.
Insight: Anderson is averaging 12.1 ppg this season, but with the Raptors facing injuries along their front line he's getting more opportunities to score of late and taking full advantage.
Description: As expected, Toronto PF/C Amir Johnson saw extended playing time with center Aaron Gray joining starter Jonas Valanciunas on the sidelines due to injury and posted solid numbers.
Insight: Johnson (7.8 pgg, 5.7 rpg) played almost 39 minutes, scoring 19 points and pulling down nine rebounds. The key was he stayed out of foul trouble.
Description: Raptors forward-center Ed Davis is averaging 8.3 points and 6.2 rebounds for the season, but could see enough minutes due to injuries to Toronto's big men to be a viable fantasy option.
Insight: Davis put up a double-double in 41 minutes in the team's last game against Sacramento and there is no reason he can't do the same on Sunday against Oklahoma City.
Description: Toronto PF/C Amir Johnson will see extended playing time with center Aaron Gray joining starter Jonas Valanciunas on the sidelines due to injury.
Insight: Johnson (7.8 pgg, 5.7 rpg) could be asked to play 40-45 minutes and would be a useful fantasy option if he can keep out of foul trouble.
Description: Raptors center Aaron Gray (2.1 ppg, 2.3 rpg) will miss Sunday's game against Oklahoma City due to flu-like symptoms.
Insight: Toronto is running out of big men. Power forward Andrea Bargnani is out for a while as is starting center Jonas Valanciunas. The team will have to over use Ed Davis (8.3 ppg, 6.2 rpg) and Amir Johnson (7.8 ppg, 5.7 rpg) and pray they stay out of foul trouble.
Description: Raptors swingman Alan Anderson didn't shoot particularly well on Friday against the Kings but did hit enough to score 20 points in 26 minutes.
Insight: Anderson is averaging 14.6 points with 2.3 threes and 1.3 steals per game in his last nine games. He's attempting 6.1 3-pointers in 26 minutes per game during that stretch.
Description: Toronto point guard Kyle Lowry had a team-high 24 points in 27 minutes off the bench on Friday versus Sacramento. Lowry shot 5-of-10 (4-7 3PT, 10-12 FT) and had four assists, three rebounds and two steals.
Insight: Lowry hasn't regained his starting job since returning from an injury but he and Jose Calderon have essentially split the point guard minutes down the middle (26 per game for Calderon, 25 per game for Lowry) over the last four games. Both players are worthy of a fantasy roster spot but Lowry has higher upside.
Description: Toronto forward Linas Kleiza (knee) will miss Friday's game due to a sore right knee.
Insight: Kleiza has been in and out of the lineup all season. Friday will be his third straight missed game. Rookie Terrence Ross has benefited from Kleiza's absence, averaging 14 ppg in 24 mpg over his last five games.
Description: Eric Koreen of the National Post believes Toronto forward/center Andrea Bargnani could be out for another month while his injured elbow continues to heal.
Insight: Bargnani (16 ppg) has been the subject of trade rumors for over a month now. It's possible he's played his final game as a Raptor.
Description: Raptors rookie shooting guard Terrence Ross picked up where he left off at the end of 2012 on Wednesday against the Blazers. Ross had a career-high 26 points on 8-of-14 shooting with six triples, five rebounds, two assists and two steals.
Insight: Ross has drained 10 threes on 14 attempts over his last two games. The eighth overall pick in the 2012 NBA Draft is averaging 14 points in 24 minutes over his last five games.
Description: Raptors point guard Jose Calderon missed his only shot attempt of the evening Wednesday against Portland and had just one rebound and zero steals in the game, but handed out 13 assists with zero turnovers while the Raptors made 53.2 percent from the field.
Insight: Calderon played an impressive game from a point guard's perspective but not from a fantasy owners perspective. The pass-first, pass-second, pass-third game plan extended to Toronto's other point guard Kyle Lowry as well; Lowry also had zero points (0-2 FG) with nine assists.
Description: Raptors guard DeMar DeRozan had his third straight game with at least 21 points Wednesday against the Blazers. He shot 11-of-17 for 24 points with two rebounds and three steals.
Insight: DeRozan is averaging a career-high 18.4 points, 4.8 rebounds and 1.2 steals this season, but he has curiously experienced a slight decline in his scoring production and shot attempts in 10 games since Andrea Bargnani went down with an elbow injury.
Description: Toronto forward Linas Kleiza (knee) didn't dress for Wednesday's game against the Trail Blazers.
Insight: Kleiza has been in and out of the lineup all season. When he has been able to play, he has produced 7.4 ppg. The veteran has been surpassed in importance by Alan Anderson and rookie Terrence Ross and isn't worthy of a fantasy roster spot.
Description: Raptors forward-center Ed Davis is averaging 11.9 points, 7.3 rebounds and 1.0 blocks over his last 10 games.
Insight: Davis has been a fixture in the starting lineup for nine straight games with Andrea Bargnani and Jonas Valanciunas out. However, the presence of Amir Johnson (7.7 ppg, 5.8 rpg) limits his value.
Description: Raptors guard-forward Alan Anderson is averaging 15.3 ppg during a streak of seven straight double-digit scoring efforts.
Insight: Anderson missed 17 games with a partially torn plantar fasciia in his left foot but has played a big role since returning. He is a 3-point specialist, making 19 in his last seven games.
Description: Raptors rookie shooting guard Terrence Ross has seen a 5.5-minute boost per game from November to December.
Insight: Ross still isn't a fantasy option but he is certainly making a bigger impact for Toronto recently. He scored 16 points on 6-of-10 shooting (4-5 3PT) Saturday, his third double-digit point game in his last four games.
Description: Raptors point guard Jose Calderon knocked down 6-of-10 from the field for 15 points with 10 assists and three rebounds Saturday against Orlando.
Insight: Calderon has held onto the starting job even though Kyle Lowry returned from a triceps injury two games ago. Lowry is averaging 16.5 points on 57.9 percent shooting, 7.0 assists, 3.5 rebounds, 1.0 steals and 1.0 blocks in 25 minutes per game off the bench since returning from a seven-game absence. Both players should be owned in all leagues.
Description: A source is telling ESPN that injured Toronto forward Andrea Bargnani is "a lock" to be traded.
Insight: Bargnani has missed nine games in a row because of a ligament tear in his right elbow. The 7-footer has played his entire seven season career with the Raptors.
Description: Toronto point guard Kyle Lowry (triceps) returned Friday against the Hornets and came off the bench for 17 points with eight assists in 27 minutes. Lowry shot 5-of-7 from the field and had a steal and two blocks.
Insight: Meanwhile, starter Jose Calderon had two points on 1-of-6 shooting in 30 minutes. It may only be a matter of time before their roles are reversed again.
Description: Toronto point guard Kyle Lowry (triceps) is probable to return Friday.
Insight: However, he'll come off the bench. Assist wizard Jose Calderon (10.4 ppg, 7.6 apg) will continue to start at point guard for the surging Raptors. Lowry is averaging a respectable 15.8 ppg this season, but most of that production came as a starter. It will be interesting to see how he handles a reserve role. Both players should be owned in all leagues, but we would hold off on starting Lowry until we see the distribution of minutes.
Description: Toronto point guard Kyle Lowry (triceps) is expected to return Friday assuming there are no post-practice setbacks. SOURCE: Josh Lewenberg, Raptors beat reporter
Insight: However, he'll come off the bench. Assist wizard Jose Calderon (10.4 ppg, 7.6 apg) will continue to start at point guard for the surging Raptors. Lowry is averaging a respectable 15.8 ppg this season but most of that production came as a starter. It will be interesting to see how he handles a reserve role. Both players should be owned in all leagues.
Description: The Toronto Star reports Raptors guard Kyle Lowry will come off the bench when he returns from a triceps injury.
Insight: Assist wizard Jose Calderon (10.4 ppg, 7.6 apg) will continue to start at point guard for the surging Raptors. Lowry is averaging a respectable 15.8 ppg this season but most of that production came as a starter. It will be interesting to see how he handles a reserve role.
Description: Raptors center Jonas Valanciunas will be out the next 4-to-6 weeks because of a broken finger.
Insight: Amir Johnson (7.4 ppg, 5.7 rpg) might not be the flashiest player in fantasy hoops but at least you know he'll be getting plenty of playing time with Valanciunas out of the lineup. And really, isn't that half the battle?
Description: Raptors point guard Kyle Lowry won't be in the lineup Wednesday against San Antonio. He's still sidelined with an injured triceps.
Insight: The good news is that Lowry is close to returning. When he does, Jose Calderon will head back to the bench. Calderon has averaged 14.2 ppg and 10.7 apg the last six games in Lowry's absence.
Description: Toronto PF Amir Johnson could see added playing time if the hand injury to Jonas Valanciunas keeps him out of the lineup for an extended length of time.
Insight: Johnson (7.3 pgg, 5.7 rpg) shares playing time up front with Ed Davis, Andrea Bargnani and Valanciunas and was seeing about 20 minutes per game, but played almost 35 minutes after the starting center was hurt in Friday night's game with the Magic.
Description: Toronto center Jonas Valanciunas, who suffered a broken finger Friday night against the Magic, will see a hand specialist and is out indefinitely.
Insight: If this ends up being an extended absence for Valanciunas, Amir Johnson, who had 10 points and seven rebounds against the Magic playing almost 35 minutes, could be worth adding in fantasy.
Description: Toronto center Jonas Valanciunas suffered a broken finger Friday night against the Magic.
Insight: It's safe to say his evening is over. He'll end the night with one rebound in just four minutes of playing time. If this ends up being an extended absence for Valanciunas, Amir Johnson (7.3 ppg, 5.7 rpg) could be worth adding in fantasy.
Description: Raptors guard-forward Alan Anderson has scored 42 points on 12-of-24 shooting (8-of-14 3PT) in his last two games after going 0-for-8 in his return to the lineup last Friday.
Insight: Anderson missed 17 games with a partially torn plantar fasciia in his left foot. He could move back into the starting lineup in place of Mickael Pietrus if he keeps playing at this level.
Description: Raptors point guard Jose Calderon had 23 points, six assists and five rebounds in 33 minutes Tuesday against the Cavaliers.
Insight: Calderon has started the last four games with Kyle Lowry out for 10 days with a partial torn triceps. He's been tremendous, averaging 16.3 points. 9.5 assists and 5.5 rebounds in those four games, including a 15-assist game last Wednesday and a triple-double Sunday.
Description: Toronto forward Linas Kleiza (knee) returned from a two-game absence to post 20 points and five rebounds with five 3-pointers Friday versus Dallas.
Insight: Kleiza has been in and out of the lineup lately, first with a hip injury and then with a sore knee, but he's made 10-of-17 3-pointers in the last two games he has played.
Description: Toronto forward Amir Johnson, who sat out Wednesday's game versus the Nets due to a suspension should be back for Friday's contest with Dallas.
Insight: Johnson (7.1 pgg, 5.4 rpg) shares playing time up front with Ed Davis, Andrea Bargnani and Jonas Valanciunas and is only seeing about 20 minutes per game.
Description: Filling in for Andrea Bargnani (injured elbow) and Amir Johnson (suspension) in the low post, Toronto forward Ed Davis enjoyed his best game of the season Wednesday against Brooklyn. In a season-high 45 minutes, Davis racked up 24 points and 12 rebounds.
Insight: Johnson (7.1 ppg, 5.4 rpg) will be back in the lineup Friday but Bargnani (16 ppg) should be on the shelf for a while, which means Davis will continue to see lots of minutes for the struggling Raptors (six losses in a row).
Description: Toronto forward Andrea Bargnani has a torn ligament in his right elbow according to Eric Koreen from the National Post.
Insight: There's no timetable for his return and it certainly doesn't seem like Bargnani will be back anytime soon. Expect big men Ed Davis (6.3 ppg, 5.5 rpg) and Jonas Valanciunas (8.2 ppg, 5.5 rpg) to see increased playing time with Bargnani sidelined.
Description: Toronto point guard Kyle Lowry has been diagnosed with a partially torn triceps. He's expected to be sidelined for the next 10 days.
Insight: That's only six games so it could be a lot worse. In the meantime, fantasy owners should feel free to insert backup point guard Jose Calderon into their starting lineups.
Description: Raptors guard Kyle Lowry is out indefinitely with an injured triceps.
Insight: Lowry just can't catch a break, can he? If your league still has Jose Calderon (9.6 ppg, 6.6 apg) available on waivers, stop reading this and pick him up right now.
Description: Toronto forward Amir Johnson is out for Wednesday's game versus the Nets. He's serving a one-game suspension for throwing his mouthguard at a referee Monday night in Portland.
Insight: Ed Davis (6.3 ppg, 5.5 rpg) should see the court a bit more tonight in Johnson's absence. Johnson (7.1 pgg, 5.4 rpg) will return from his suspension Friday when the Raptors host Dallas.
Description: Toronto guard Jose Calderon could get the start on Wednesday with Kyle Lowry doubtful due to an injured right triceps.
Insight: If Lowry can't play, Jose Calderon would get the start and have solid fantasy value. When Lowry came out of Monday's game, Calderon played 32 minutes and posted 12 points and six assists off the bench.
Description: Toronto point guard Kyle Lowry is doubtful for Wednesday's game against Brooklyn with a sore right triceps.
Insight: Lowry has played well this season, averaging 15.8 ppg, 5.6 rpg, 5.8 apg. If Lowry can't play, Jose Calderon would get the start and have solid fantasy value. When Lowry came out of Monday's game, Calderon played 32 minutes and posted 12 points and six assists.
Description: Raptors PF/C Andrea Bargnani injured his elbow on Monday and while x-rays were negative, he reportedly felt numbness in his hand.
Insight: Bargnani is averaging 16.0 ppg, 4.3 rpg and 1.4 apg - all lower than last season. Ed Davis would see increased playing time of Bargnani can play.
Description: Raptors PF/C Andrea Bargnani injured his elbow on Monday and while x-rays were negative, he reportedly felt numbness in his hand.
Insight: Bargnani is averaging 16.0 ppg, 4.3 rpg and 1.4 apg - all lower than last season. Ed Davis and Amir Johnson would see increased playing time of Bargnani can play.
Description: Shooting guard Mickael Pietrus will start for the Raptors Monday night in Portland. He sat out Sunday's loss to the Clippers with left knee tendinitis.
Insight: Pietrus (10.8 ppg) had surgery on his knee during the offseason and he's clearly not at 100 percent yet. Pietrus' history of knee issues is something fantasy owners need to be aware of when assembling their lineups this season.
Description: Raptors guard DeMar DeRozan is averaging 19.2 points, 6.0 rebounds and 2.6 assists over his last five games.
Insight: DeRozan scored 24 points with five rebounds, four assists and one turnover Sunday against the Clippers. He's attempted 10 or more shots in all but one game this season and is getting 37 mpg.
Description: Raptors rookie center Jonas Valanciunas hasn't scored more than eight points in any of his last six games or grabbed more than seven rebounds in any of his last nine.
Insight: Valanciunas has started all 21 games for Toronto this season but is only averaging 23 mpg. The 20-year-old Lithuanian may have a ton of upside but he doesn't warrant a roster spot in fantasy leagues while he's splitting time with Amir Johnson and Ed Davis.
Description: Toronto forward Linas Kleiza returned to the starting lineup Sunday and scored 17 points, with all five of his made field goals coming from 3-point range. He added three rebounds, two assists, one steal and one block in 28 minutes.
Insight: Kleiza has been dealing with an injured hip but he appears to be getting healthier. Mickael Pietrus started while Kleiza was sidelined but he missed Sunday's game with left knee tendinitis.
Description: Toronto point guard Kyle Lowry has only made five field goals on 16 attempts, including zero 3-pointers on seven attempts, in two games since going 9-of-20 with four 3-pointers for 34 points on Dec. 5.
Insight: Lowry made all 23 of his free-throw attempts in his first two games of December but has only attempted six foul shots in his last two games, including zero in a four-point, five-turnover game Sunday against the Clippers.
Description: Toronto forward Linas Kleiza is doubtful for Friday's game against Utah because of a sore hip.
Insight: Kleiza didn't play Monday or Wednesday and it's clear that even when he's been in the lineup this season he hasn't been close to 100 percent. He doesn't belong in any fantasy lineups until owners can be assured that he's healthy.
Description: Raptors forward Ed Davis is averaging 10 points and 8.7 rebounds on 62.5 percent shooting in his last six games.
Insight: Davis is splitting time at center with rookie Jonas Valanciunas, which limits the fantasy potential of both men. However, Davis seems like the better option of the two right now.
Description: Raptors guard-forward Mickael Pietrus netted 21 points with six rebounds and two threes Wednesday against the Kings.
Insight: Pietrus has started the last two games in place of Linas Kleiza (sore hip). We're not convinced Pietrus is going to receive consistent shots in a lineup with Kyle Lowry, DeMar DeRozan and Andrea Bargnani, especially when Kleiza returns.
Description: Toronto point guard Kyle Lowry exploded for 34 points on 9-of-20 shooting with 11 assists, five rebounds, one steal and three turnovers Wednesday against Sacramento. Lowry went 4-of-9 from 3-point range and 12-of-12 from the line.
Insight: Lowry finally appears to be getting back into his early season rhythm after missing six games with a sprained ankle in mid-November.
Description: Toronto forward Linas Kleiza will miss Wednesday night's game in Sacramento because of a sore hip.
Insight: Kleiza didn't play Monday either and it's clear that even when he's been in the lineup this season he hasn't been close to 100 percent. He doesn't belong in any fantasy lineups until owners can be assured that he's healthy.
Description: Raptors small forward Linas Kleiza (sore hip) is questionable for Wednesday's game against Sacramento. He missed Monday's game with Denver due to the injury.
Insight: Kleiza is still getting under 20 minutes per game and averaging 7.0 ppg, 2.7 rpg, so at this time even if he plays, he's not a fantasy-worthy starter.
Description: The Raptors will start Mickael Pietrus in place of Linas Kleiza (hip) Monday against the Nuggets.
Insight: Pietrus scored six points with two rebounds in 31:30 off the bench Monday, his first appearance with Toronto. Kleiza will likely be day-to-day with a sore hip.
Description: Raptors forward Andrea Bargnani (ankle) will start Friday versus Phoenix.
Insight: Bargnani is averaging 17.9 ppg, 4.7 rpg and 1.5 apg - all lower than last season. He was a game-time call for Friday due to an ankle injury but was never expected to miss the game.
Description: Raptors forward Andrea Bargnani is probable for Friday's game against Phoenix. He's been dealing with a sore left ankle. He'll be a game-time decision.
Insight: Bargnani is averaging 17.9 ppg, 4.7 rpg and 1.5 apg - all lower than last season.
Description: The Raptors have agreed to sign free agent swingman Mickael Pietrus. The deal is expected to be finalized Friday. SOURCE: USA Today
Insight: Pietrus will give the Raptors some much needed depth on the perimeter but isn't a fantasy factor. Small forward Dominic McGuire will likely be released in a corresponding roster move.
Description: Raptors forward Andrea Bargnani is out for Wednesday's game in Memphis. He's dealing with an ankle injury.
Insight: Perhaps the injury contributed to his dreadful shooting performance Sunday against San Antonio (2-for-19). Bargnani will be replaced in the starting lineup by Linas Kleiza (6.8 ppg in nine games).
Description: Raptors guard DeMar DeRozan scored 12 points with three rebounds and four turnovers Tuesday against the Rockets.
Insight: The best thing about DeRozan is that he's going to shoot a lot, like he did Sunday when he scored 29 points on 11-of-28 shooting. Unfortunately, he doesn't quite fit into fantasy rotations -- if you play him at shooting guard you're getting lackluster 3-point production and if you play him at small forward you're getting average rebound production.
Description: Toronto forward Andrea Bargnani's shot was a mess Sunday as he made just 2-of-19 for four points following a 13-of-20 game for 34 points Friday, but he bounced back Tuesday with 21 points on 8-of-12 shooting.
Insight: Bargnani struggled with his percentage prior to Friday and his troubles returned Sunday. He's going to be inconsistent from game-to-game but at least you know he'll keep getting the looks.
Description: Raptors rookie center Jonas Valanciunas is probable for Sunday's game against San Antonio with a sore left ankle.
Insight: Valanciunas is averaging 8.6 ppg and 6.0 rpg for the season, but has been much improved over his last three starts averaging 12 ppg and 9.0 rpg.
Description: Toronto 7-footer Andrea Bargnani torched the Pistons for 34 points Friday night at the Palace of Auburn Hills.
Insight: Bargnani isn't your stereotypical big man. He's not a strong rebounder (just 4.5 rpg) and most of the time he'd prefer to shoot long-range jumpers instead of posting up (he's averaging 4.5 three-point attempts per game). Either way, Bargnani is a dominant scorer and a fantasy must-start as long as he can stay healthy.
Description: Raptors forward Andrea Bargnani's shot has finally started falling the last two games. He's made 19-of-38 (.500) for 47 points in that span.
Insight: Bargnani hit just 57-of-159 (.358) in the first 10 games this season but has heated up the last two. The Italian has a reputation of being a strong outside shooter but he's only made more than 37.3 percent of his shots from 3-point range once in his seven-year career, including 35.8 this season.
Description: Raptors point guard Kyle Lowry scored 21 points with eight assists, three rebounds, two steals, three blocks and four threes Wednesday versus Charlotte.
Insight: Lowry came off the bench Tuesday in his first game back from an ankle sprain but he moved back to the starting lineup Wednesday. Make sure the PG is back in your lineup.
Description: Toronto guard Jose Calderon did not start Wednesday's game against the Bobcats.
Insight: Kyle Lowry has returned to the starting lineup for the Raptors after coming off the bench last night in Philadelphia. Calderon had been on a roll while Lowry was out, averaging 12.8 apg over his previous six games.
Description: Raptors point guard Jose Calderon contributed 13 points and 12 assists Tuesday in a loss to Philadelphia.
Insight: Fantasy owners who were concerned that Calderon's fantasy value might fade upon Kyle Lowry's return need not worry. Calderon logged 37 minutes Tuesday even with Lowry in the lineup. Tuesday was the fifth time Calderon has reached double-digit assists in his last six games.
Description: Raptors point guard Kyle Lowry is set to return Tuesday night against the 76ers. Lowry has been out for the last two weeks because of a sprained right ankle.
Insight: He'll come off the bench. Lowry may have to earn his way back into the starting lineup with Jose Calderon playing so well right now (13 apg in his last five appearances).
Description: Toronto point guard Jose Calderon had a season-high 18 assists to go with nine points Sunday against Orlando.
Insight: Calderon has been a solid replacement for injured starter Kyle Lowry, averaging 10.9 ppg and 8.2 apg, but he's not the scorer Lowry is. Still, he's a valuable fantasy asset as both a starter and off the bench.
Description: Toronto guard Kyle Lowry (ankle) continues his on-court rehab work, but is not expected back into the lineup until late November, though no specific date has been set. Lowry is averaging 18.3 ppg, 5.8 rpg, 6.3 apg, 3.0 spg in four contests.
Insight: Backup point guard Jose Calderon has been a solid replacement, averaging 10.9 ppg and 8.2 apg, but he's not the scorer Lowry is. Calderon had a season-high 18 assists to go with nine points Sunday against Orlando.
Description: Raptors forward Andrea Bargnani has only made 50 field goals in nine games despite taking 141 shots (.355).
Insight: Bargnani scored 15 points Saturday versus Boston and is averaging 16.1 ppg this season but he's been killing you if your league uses FG percentage as a category.
Description: Raptors small forward Linas Kleiza (ankle) is expected to play Saturday despite being limited in practice Friday.
Insight: That's good news for Kleiza and the Raptors since the team will be without Landry Fields and Alan Anderson. While the veteran will likely get an increased role he won't be much of a fantasy option outside of deep leagues.
Description: Raptors small forward Linas Kleiza missed practice on Thursday to rest his sore ankle.
Insight: Kleiza will have about 48 hours to get healthy before Saturday's 12:30 start against Boston. Toronto's roster has been decimated by injuries so there's a good chance Kleiza will play on Saturday even if he's less than 100 percent.
Description: Raptors guard/forward Landry Fields is out indefinitely after undergoing ulnar nerve surgery on his right elbow on Wednesday.
Insight: There's no timetable for Fields' return. Seventh-year forward Linas Kleiza (10 ppg, 4.3 rpg) stands to gain the most fantasy value with Fields on the sidelines.
Description: Toronto guard Kyle Lowry has already been out a week while nursing a right ankle sprain. Now he'll miss an additional 1-to-2 weeks because of a bone bruise on that same ankle.
Insight: Backup point guard Jose Calderon has been excellent during Lowry's absence, producing at a rate of 14.5 ppg and 11 apg in his last four games.
Description: Toronto point guard Jose Calderon had a triple-double Tuesday in a low-scoring win against the Pacers.
Insight: Calderon scored 13 points and had 10 assists with 10 rebounds. The veteran has four times averaged double figures in points with at least 8.3 assists per game in his career so he's worth starting while Kyle Lowry is out.
Description: Raptors point guard Kyle Lowry (sprained ankle) will miss Tuesday's game against Indiana.
Insight: Lowry started off as Yahoo! fantasy basketball's No. 1 overall player after tallying 71 points, 22 rebounds, 21 assists, 11 steals, eight 3-pointers and one block through the first three games. However, he hasn't been able to resume practicing yet and doesn't have an exact timetable for his return.
Description: Toronto point guard Jose Calderon contributed 20 points and 17 assists Monday night in a triple-overtime defeat against Utah.
Insight: Calderon has been filling in for injured starter Kyle Lowry over the past few games. Don't be surprised if head coach Dwane Casey gives Calderon a bit of a break Tuesday night in Indiana after playing 50 minutes on Monday.
Description: Raptors guard DeMar DeRozan equaled a career-high in points with 37 Monday in an overtime loss to the Jazz.
Insight: He accomplished this on 16-of-33 shooting. Overall the 23-year-old was on the floor for 60 minutes Monday night. Toronto plays again Tuesday night against Indiana.
Description: Raptors point guard Kyle Lowry (sprained ankle) has been ruled out of Monday's game.
Insight: Lowry started off as Yahoo! fantasy basketball's No. 1 overall player after tallying 71 points, 22 rebounds, 21 assists, 11 steals, eight 3-pointers and one block through the first three games. However, he hasn't been able to resume practicing yet and doesn't have an exact timetable for his return.
Description: Raptors forward Linas Kleiza will make his season debut Saturday against Philadelphia. Kleiza missed Toronto's first five games while attending to a family matter.
Insight: Kleiza averaged 9.7 ppg in 49 games for the Raptors in 2011-12. He averaged 7.5 ppg against the 76ers in two games last season.
Description: Raptors forward Andrea Bargnani scored a season-high 25 points Wednesday but his long-distance shooting stroke disappeared (0-for-5 3PT).
Insight: Bargnani shot 9-of-20 Wednesday after hitting on just 19-of-57 (33.3 percent) in the first four games. However, he failed to make a 3-pointer after dropping seven of his first 15 this season.
Description: Toronto point guard Kyle Lowry won't be active for Wednesday's game in Dallas. Lowry sprained his ankle Tuesday night in Oklahoma City.
Insight: Jose Calderon will draw the start in his place and should be able to provide fantasy owners with decent assist numbers while Lowry is sidelined.
Description: Raptors point guard Kyle Lowry, who left Tuesday's game against the Thunder with a right ankle sprain, is doubtful for Wednesday's game against Dallas.
Insight: Lowry landed on Serge Ibaka's foot and rolled his right ankle. He had to be helped to the locker room. The loss would be unfortunate for fantasy owners since Lowry was off to a hot start, averaging 18.3 ppg, 5.8 rpg, 6.3 apg and 3.0 spg through the first four games this season.
Description: Raptors G/F Landry Fields has scored just 10 points combined in the first four games this season.
Insight: We still don't know what Toronto was thinking when it handed Fields that big contract. The guard has been a non-factor, making just 4-of-20 from the field.
Description: Raptors rookie center Jonas Valanciunas scored a career-high 18 points on 6-of-8 shooting with six rebounds Tuesday against the Thunder.
Insight: Valanciunas has only taken 20 total shots in the last three games after taking 15 in the opener. The 20-year-old is going to be a risky fantasy play since his game is still raw but his chances should grow as the season goes on.
Description: Raptors point guard Kyle Lowry left Tuesday's game against the Thunder with a right ankle sprain and will not return. SOURCE: Doug Smith, Toronto Star
Insight: Lowry landed on Serge Ibaka's foot and rolled his right ankle. He had to be helped to the locker room. The loss would be unfortunate for fantasy owners since Lowry is off to a torrid start, averaging 23.7 ppg, 7.3 rpg, 7.0 apg, 3.7 spg and 2.7 3PM in the first three games this season.
Description: Raptors forward Andrea Bargnani hasn't found his shooting touch yet. After going 4-for-14 against Minnesota, the PF/C is shooting just 32.6 percent (14-for-43) in the Raptors' first three games.
Insight: Bargnani is adjusting to the power forward spot this season with Jonas Valanciunas playing the center role. When healthy Bargnani is a very good fantasy value who averaged 19.5 ppg, 5.5 rpg and 2.0 apg in 31 games last season. Don't panic and let Bargnani have time to get accustomed to the new position.
Description: Toronto guard Kyle Lowry finished just shy of a triple-double Saturday against Brooklyn.
Insight: Lowry blew up for a season-high 28 points, eight rebounds and eight assists. He also had three steals and a block. Fantasy owners who took a chance on Lowry in hopes of a breakout season have been rewarded so far.
Description: Raptors rookie center Jonas Valanciunas recorded a double-double -- 12 points and 10 rebounds -- in just 23 minutes in his NBA debut Wednesday.
Insight: Valanciunas managed to take 15 shots, making three. With only Aaron Gray and Ed Davis behind him at center, Valanciunas will have plenty of chances to succeed this season. The 20-year-old seems ready to make good on those opportunities.
Description: Raptors point guard Kyle Lowry excelled in his regular season debut with the team, scoring 21 points with seven rebounds and eight assists Wednesday.
Insight: Lowry also went 2-of-3 from 3-point range and made all seven of his free-throw attempts while recording five steals in 36 minutes. If you wanted an exhibition of what Lowry brings to the table when he's on point, this was it.
Description: Toronto signed shooting guard DeMar DeRozan to a four-year, $40 million extension on Wednesday.
Insight: DeRozan isn't much of a rebounder (3.3 rpg) or distributor (2.0 apg) but he can definitely put the ball in the hoop (16.7 ppg last season). He notched 10 points for the Raptors Wednesday in a season-opening loss to Indiana.
Description: The Raptors have until October 31st to agree on a contract extension with guard DeMar DeRozan or he will become a free agent after the season.
Insight: The two sides have been negotiating but the Toronto Star reports that no deal is imminent. Oklahoma City is in a similar situation right now with guard James Harden.
Description: Raptors forward Ed Davis missed Friday's preseason game against Memphis to rest his injured hip. Toronto is optimistic that he'll be able to play Wednesday in the team's season opener against Indiana.
Insight: Davis only averaged 23.3 minutes per game last season but was still able to average nearly seven rebounds per game. He's worth a late-round look in fantasy drafts.
Description: According to a report in the Toronto Sun, Raptors coach Dwane Casey will start Jonas Valanciunas at center with Andrea Bargnani in the power forward slot.
Insight: Valanciunas is fully over the calf strain that bothered him earlier this month and looks like he's ready to contribute right away. The 20-year old was drafted fifth overall in 2011 and spent last season in Lithuania.
Description: Raptors point guard Kyle Lowry had a nice all-around performance in Monday's preseason game against the Bucks, scoring 15 points with six assists and five rebounds, though he did turn the ball over six times.
Insight: Lowry was in the midst of a career year last season with the Rockets before a bacterial infection landed him in the hospital and cost him most of March. The point guard can score and pass and rebounds well for a guard (4.6 per game last season) so he'll be a wanted man in fantasy leagues.
Description: Raptors forward Andrea Bargnani injured his calf during Wednesday night's exhibition game versus the Wizards.
Insight: Bargnani struggled with calf injuries for much of last season so this has to be concerning to fantasy owners. For now, the seventh-year forward is listed as day-to-day.
Description: Raptors G/F Landry Fields scored 15 points in Wednesday's exhibition game against the Wizards. Fields shot 6-of-10 from the field and made three 3-pointers.
Insight: Fields was signed away from New York in the offseason and is pencilled in to start at shooting guard, with DeMar DeRozan moving to small forward and rookie Terrence Ross backing him up. Fields is one of the league's best rebounding guards but he doesn't offer much else.
Description: Raptors forward Jonas Valanciunas scored eight points and grabbed eight boards in Wednesday's preseason game.
Insight: Valanciunas is fully over the calf strain that bothered him earlier this month and looks like he's ready to contribute right away. The 20-year old was drafted fifth overall in 2011 and spent last season in Lithuania.
Description: According to NBA.com, Aaron Gray is in line to start at center for the Raptors this season.
Insight: In five NBA seasons, Gray has played for three teams and never averaged more than 17 minutes or 4.3 ppg in a season. He's just keeping the spot warm until Jonas Valanciunas' calf is healthy and he learns the NBA game better.
Description: Center Aaron Gray has signed on to play two more seasons for the Raptors.
Insight: In 49 games for Toronto in 2011-12, Gray averaged 3.9 ppg and 5.7 rpg on 51.6 percent shooting. Doesn't exactly scream "fantasy stud" does it?
Description: Point guard Jose Calderon has said that he wouldn't mind if the Raptors traded him now that Toronto has already committed to Kyle Lowry.
Insight: We're not sure what the market is for Calderon (10.5 ppg, 8.8 apg) just yet but certainly his fantasy stock would suffer if he stays in Toronto playing behind Lowry (14.3 ppg, 6.6 apg).
Description: According to Yahoo! reporter Adrian Wojnarowski, the Toronto Raptors have acquired point guard Kyle Lowry from the Rockets for a package that includes a future lottery pick.
Insight: Interesting timing considering the Rockets just lost Goran Dragic to the Suns via free agency. The team has extended an offer to Jeremy Lin, but the Knicks have the opportunity to match any deal. Lowry was in the midst of a career year, averaging 15.1 points, 6.8 assists and 5.0 rebounds per game in 40 games before a bacterial infection cut his season short. He'll likely start over Jose Calderon if the incumbent point guard is retained by Toronto.
Description: Washington guard Terrence Ross was chosen eighth overall by the Toronto Raptors Thursday night at the NBA Draft.
Insight: Ross tallied 16.4 ppg in his second and final season for the Huskies in 2011-12. Most projections had him going later in the first round but the Raptors felt like they had a need at guard and with Dion Waiters and Damian Lillard already gone, they felt Ross was the team's best available option.
