Raptors' VanVleet, Achiuwa miss game against Suns
Published
The Toronto Raptors were without guard Fred VanVleet and forward Precious Achiuwa for another game as the pair sat Friday night against the Phoenix Suns.
VanVleet missed Thursday's game against the Memphis Grizzlies, a 119-106 defeat, with back spasms. Originally listed as questionable for Friday's game against the Phoenix Suns, VanVleet downgraded to out prior to the game. Toronto went on to win 113-104 behind 35 points from Gary Trent Jr.
Achiuwa has not played since Nov. 11, when the Raptors lost to the Oklahoma City Thunder 132-113. He suffered an ankle injury in the game and has missed 23 matchups since.
There was hope he could suit up as he was given a questionable tag on the injury report, but ultimately the team decided they want him to get a couple more practices/workouts in before he returns. A tentative timeline has been set for Achiuwa to return next week.
Toronto started 7-5 with Achiuwa in the lineup, but have struggled without him, going 9-15 in their last 24. The Suns came to town having lost four of their last five, and were with star guard Devin Booker on the shelf with a groin strain.