The Toronto Raptors are off to an incredible 13-5 record to start the campaign. Their trade for Brandon Ingram looks like one of the best moves of the 2024-25 season. They carry an eight-game win streak into their next contest against the struggling Indiana Pacers on Nov. 26. However, in a season full of optimism, the team suffered a setback regarding guard RJ Barrett’s unfortunate knee injury.
Raptors Announce RJ Barrett Injury Recovery Timeline
Barrett injured his right knee on Nov. 23 in Toronto’s victory over the Brooklyn Nets. He jumped a passing lane and slammed the ball home on the other end. Barrett did not have contact with anyone on the play but landed awkwardly on his right knee after the jam. The team ruled its starting shooting guard out for the rest of the game.
RJ Barrett got hurt from an awkward landing after a fastbreak dunk.
Hopefully it’s nothing serious and he’s alright 🙏 pic.twitter.com/2xu9Zv6ktU
— Omer Osman (@OmerOsman200) November 24, 2025
According to Marc Stein, Barrett underwent imaging on Wednesday, Nov. 26, which revealed no structural damage to his right knee. Toronto labels the injury as a right knee sprain. The Raptors will re-evaluate him in seven days, meaning fans should expect an update around Dec. 3. It appears Barrett avoided a long-term absence.
The Raptors are scheduled to play four games, two on the road and two at home, while Barrett remains sidelined. They face the Pacers, Charlotte Hornets, New York Knicks, and Portland Trail Blazers. New York is the only team above .500 out of this group, giving Toronto a great chance to continue its winning ways during Barrett’s absence.
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In 17 games this season, Barrett averages 19.4 points, 3.8 assists, and 4.8 rebounds. He shoots a career-high 50.6% from the field on 13.9 attempts per game. Despite the doubts surrounding the team’s offensive fit heading into this season, Barrett, Ingram, and Scottie Barnes quickly developed a strong chemistry. Head coach Darko Rajakovic deserves early consideration for Coach of the Year.
Raptors Lean on Sophomore Guard to Replace Barrett
Rajakovic started Ja’Kobe Walter against the Cleveland Cavaliers in the game after Barrett hurt his knee. The 19th pick in the 2024 NBA Draft played 24 minutes and had five points on 2-of-8 shooting with three rebounds, one assist, and two steals. Despite starting, he did not play a normal starter’s 30-minute role.
The Raptors played point guards Immanuel Quickley and Jamal Shead simultaneously. Shead delivered nine points on 3-of-4 from the field, seven assists, and a steal. Toronto loses size in the backcourt with this combination, but gains more playmaking and paint penetration.
Walter plays more of a “3 and D” role off the ball, while Shead’s biggest strength is his playmaking. Quickley’s long-range marksmanship and off-ball activity make it easy for him to play next to Shead. It will be interesting to see how Rajakovic adjusts his rotation game by game to keep Toronto’s win streak alive without Barrett.
