The Toronto Raptors could use a reinforcement when they face the Philadelphia 76ers on Saturday for Game 4 of the first-round playoff series.

Unfortunately for them, their wish might not come true. As the Raptors lost their thriving young rookie Scottie Barnes in the fourth quarter in the Game 1 matchup on the road against the Sixers 

Barnes was in a lot of pain when the injury first occurred. As he needed to be helped back to the locker room, Toronto wasted no time ruling Barnes out for the rest of the night.  

The Raptors kept Barnes’ diagnosis quiet, likely for strategic purposes. But it was clear Barnes’ injury wasn’t exactly minor considering he was sporting a walking boot ahead of Game 2. 

And although the Raptors still left the door open for a potential Game 3 return, the reality was that Barnes was not going to come back that early.  

Barnes wouldn’t rule himself out for the series as Nick Nurse made it clear he might be back soon. 

Ahead of Game 3, Nurse expressed the possibility of Barnes returning in Game 4. Then, he doubled down on that claim after an overtime loss at home on Wednesday.  

On Friday night, Toronto’s injury report listed Barnes as doubtful. While the rookie could make his return at some point if the series stays alive beyond this weekend