The Toronto Raptors and New York Knicks game is scheduled for tonight, so I’m sure a lot of people have it marked on their calendars. Sadly, though, it won’t be the reunion that fans were expecting for.
The Knicks haven’t visited Toronto since the trade that sent RJ Barrett, Immanuel Quickley, and a second-round draft pick to New York, along with O.G. Anunoby, Precious Achiuwa, and Malachi Flynn.
Only one player from this transaction will be able to play tonight due to injury and other issues.
To begin with, Malachi Flynn was traded by the Knicks during the trade deadline, so he is no longer on the team. Due to elbow problems, O.G. Anunoby had to have surgery, which has kept him out of the starting lineup.

The Raptors’ RJ Barrett and Immanuel Quickley have both missed a lot of time this month due to grieving, taking time off from the team.
Although they are currently back with the team, they won’t be playing tonight as they are going through their return to competition conditioning.
That leaves Precious Achiuwa, who will likely receive a warm welcome from supporters on his first visit back to Toronto this evening.
Despite being somewhat hit by the injury bug this month, both teams’ season ending positions are very different. As of right moment, the Raptors have lost 11 straight games due to injuries, absences, and legal issues, so they aren’t exactly gearing up for a postseason run.

Conversely, the Knicks are presently attempting valiantly to maintain their home court advantage by remaining fourth in the Eastern Conference. They are in fifth place, one game ahead of the Orlando Magic.
It should be entertaining for Toronto as one club will be trying to snap a 12-game losing streak, and the other will be determined to win a crucial seeding match. Furthermore, since moving to New York City, Precious Achiuwa has been on one, so perhaps a game of retaliation is in the works.

In any case, it’s good to see Barrett and Quickley back in the starting lineup. The Raptors’ return was the greatest of every trade they made this season in a deal that eventually benefited both parties. Going forward, Barrett and Quickley both seem destined to be a part of this core and blend in well with the group. That they are both succeeding in their respective team positions is also helpful.