Toronto Raptors vs San Antonio Spurs: Injury Updates, Expected Lineups and Game Prediction

The Toronto Raptors have established themselves as one of the juggernauts in the Eastern Conference in the last few seasons. They lifted the glorious Larry O’Brien trophy in 2019, but couldn’t repeat the same success in 2020.

In fact, they were one of the top teams to come out of the East. Unfortunately, their journey was cut short by the Boston Celtics in the Eastern Semi-Finals. This is a new season, but the fans have the same expectations from the Raptors, hanging another banner in the rafters.

However, they couldn’t start the season on a winning note against the Pelicans. They will be hoping to get their first win of the season in their Saturday night matchup against the San Antonio Spurs at 8:30 PM ET.

Toronto Raptors injury updates and expected lineup

After losing their home game, the Raptors will head on the road for their Boxing Day battle against the Spurs. If they want to win, they need their 2 superstars, Kyle Lowry and Pascal Siakam in their top form.

Moreover, Siakam must have a chip on his shoulder to prove his critics wrong after an abysmal 2020 postseason run.

As far as their injury report is concerned, there are no new updates for them prior to the game. Guard Jalen Harris is still listed as day to day, after missing the Wednesday night game.

So the expected lineup for the Raptors is Kyle Lowry (G), Fred VanVleet (G), OG Anunoby (F), Pascal Siakam (F), and Aron Baynes (C).

San Antonio Spurs injury updates and expected lineup

After being one of the best franchises for nearly 2 decades, the Spurs are definitely heading towards a rebuild. However, as of now, they still have DeMar DeRozan, who will be visiting his former team for the first time this season. It will be exciting to see how DeRozan performs against those friendly faces.

Moreover, they do not have any crucial players missing the game due to injuries apart from guard Derrick White. Their expected lineup for the Boxing Day matchup is Dejounte Murray (G), Lonnie Walker (G), DeMar DeRozan (F), Keldon Johnson (F), LaMarcus Aldridge (C).

Game Prediction

The Raptors should have no problem getting their first victory of the season. Honestly, they have a better overall team and can give the Spurs a run for their money.