As the Toronto Raptors prepare for their matchup against the Utah Jazz, the team has received key updates ahead of the game. The Raptors have been one of the stronger teams in the Eastern Conference this season, currently sitting as the No. 5 seed despite a two-game losing streak.
After missing the playoffs last year, the team is in the midst of a significant turnaround, driven by improved depth and star production from Brandon Ingram and Scottie Barnes.
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Additional contributions from younger players, particularly Immanuel Quickley and Jakob Poeltl, have also been key throughout the season. However, injuries continue to be a concern. According to Blake Murphy of Sportsnet, Quickley is out with plantar fasciitis(foot injury), while Poeltl will miss the game on the second night of a back-to-back due to back management.
Both players have already missed extended stretches this season, and their absence adds another challenge as Toronto looks to maintain its position in the standings.
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This absence will significantly affect the Raptors’ rotation and minutes, as both Quickley and Poeltl play key roles. Quickley provides scoring and playmaking, while Poeltl anchors the interior with rebounding and rim protection, helping create second-chance opportunities.
Both have been highly productive when healthy. Quickley, across 67 games, is averaging 16.9 points, 4.1 rebounds, and 6.0 assists while shooting 44.5% from the field and 37.4% from three-point range. In 35 games, Poeltl is averaging 10.4 points, 7.6 rebounds, and 2.1 assists while shooting 69.5% from the field and 64.5% from the free throw.
With Poeltl as the team’s only true center, his absence leaves a major gap in the frontcourt. Without a reliable backup, Toronto may need to rely more on forwards such as Sandro Mamukelashvili, along with increased minutes from guards like Jamal Shead and Ja’Kobe Walter, which could impact their interior defense and rebounding.
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Toronto Raptors guard Immanuel Quickley (5) brings the ball up court against the Chicago Bulls during the first half at United Center. © Kamil Krzaczynski-Imagn Images
Former Kentucky standout and the No. 25 overall pick in the 2020 NBA Draft, Quickley earned All-Rookie honors and has grown into a key point guard. Known for his efficient three-point shooting, pull-up scoring, and effective floater game, he also contributes defensively with his length and activity. Quickley signed a five-year, $175 million contract extension in July 2024 through the 2028–29 season.
Former Utah Utes standout and the No. 9 overall pick in the 2016 NBA Draft, Poeltl has developed into a reliable starting center for the Raptors when healthy. He excels at strong spatial awareness, consistent rebounding on both ends, and anchoring the defense with solid, mobile footwork. Poeltl signed a four-year, $104 million contract extension with Toronto in July 2025 that runs through the 2029–30 season.
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The Raptors view both players as important long-term pieces.
Related: Warriors Announce Kristaps Porzingis, Moses Moody Injury Updates Before Mavericks Game
This story was originally published by Athlon Sports on Mar 23, 2026, where it first appeared in the NBA section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.