All-star Scottie Barnes returns to Raptors lineup vs. Timberwolves

By The Canadian Press on November 21, 2024.

Toronto Raptors forward Scottie Barnes (4) shoots as Philadelphia 76ers guard Ricky Council IV (14) defends during first half NBA basketball action in Toronto on Friday, October 25, 2024. Barnes was inserted into the Toronto Raptors starting lineup ahead of tonight's game against the Minnesota Timberwolves. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Frank Gunn

TORONTO – Scottie Barnes is back.

Barnes was inserted into the Toronto Raptors starting lineup ahead of tonight’s game against the Minnesota Timberwolves.

He broke his right orbital bone in the fourth quarter of Toronto’s 121-119 overtime loss to the Denver Nuggets on Nov. 4.

Barnes was expected to be out at least three weeks with the injury but came back slightly ahead of schedule.

Raptors head coach Darko Rajakovic would not say who would be moved to the bench to make space for Barnes.

The 23-year-old all-star forward was averaging 19.2 points, 7.8 rebounds and six assists per game before the injury.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Nov. 21, 2024.