The Toronto Raptors will head to Denver to face the defending MVP Nikola Jokic and the Denver Nuggets for their second meeting of the season. The Raptors come into this one with an OT win against the Kings on Saturday. However, they will have some bitter memories of their loss against the Nuggets in OT where the Joker dropped 40 on them overcoming a 15-point deficit to clinch the win.

Both teams had a rough start to the season but the Raptors definitely more so. Toronto currently have a season record of  2-5 which included a four-game losing streak that they put an end to with their recent win. RJ Barrett was a key figure in the victory scoring 31 points while he also had 9 rebounds and 6 assists to his name.

On the other hand, Denver registered their first home win finally after defeating a lackluster Jazz side. “I know our guys coming in we’re going to be searching for uh some energy and uh you know we were able to uh do a good job and get a win finally at home,” Nuggets coach Mike Malone said after the game.

Both teams have a few injuries in their respective camps but the Raptors have two of their starters on the injury list and that could be a real concern for them ahead of this game. Simultaneously, Denver also will miss their starting point guard for this one. Let’s take a look at both injury reports for more information before the game Tips Off.

Injury Reports

Toronto Raptors Injury Report

They are set to miss Scottie Barnes who has already been ruled out for the next three weeks due to an orbital fracture. He was quite impressive in the first meeting of the two teams until he was injured, as he scored 21 points, 12 rebounds, and 9 assists. Next up is Immanuel Quickley, the combo guard is doubtful for the clash due to a pelvis injury.

According to Darko Rajakovic, Kelly Olynyk is still a few weeks away from returning to the court due to a back issue. last on the list is Bruce Brown who’s been ruled out for the game in Denver due to a knee injury and will remain out for multiple weeks.

Denver Nuggets Injury Report

The major blow for Denver is the absence of their point guard Jamal Murray who suffered a concussion injury against the Timberwolves. So far this season he hasn’t been in his best form but still managed to average 16.2 points. He has been ruled out of the Denver game as well.

Two players are doubtful for the game including Vlatko Cancar and Aaron Gordon. Cancar is on day-to-day due to an ankle injury whereas Gordon is suffering from a knee/calf injury and will be a game-day decision. Last is DaRon Holmes II who is not available for selection due to unknown reasons.

Depth Charts

Let’s take a look at the depth of both rosters to see which side has the upper hand.

Toronto Raptors Depth Chart

Denver Nuggets Depth Chart

The Nuggets are starting to build some momentum after winning back-to-back games in OT then losing a close one before returning to winning ways against the Jazz. They will look to build on that given they are without Jamal Murray the Nuggets are favorites in this one. On the other hand, the Raptors will miss Scottie Barnes and all the offensive burden will be on the in-form RJ Barrett but can he lead his team to a victory in the Mile High City? Only time can tell. Nonetheless, it won’t be given Denver’s quality but it promises to be a close contest similar to the one last week where Nuggets came on top.