Advertisement

Reigning NBA Rookie of the Year Scottie Barnes exits game with right ankle sprain

Scottie Barnes entered this season with some high hopes after winning NBA Rookie of the Year last season. He may have just hit a significant obstacle.

The Toronto Raptors forward left the court in the second quarter of Saturday's game against the Miami Heat. Minutes later, his team announced he had a right ankle sprain and would not return.

The injury appeared to occur when Barnes fell awkwardly after an and-1 lay-up. He needed some help off the court before heading to the locker room. He finished his night with 11 points on 5-of-9 shooting with two rebounds and two assists in 13 minutes.

Unfortunately, the injury occurred on a homecoming games for the Florida native and Florida State product, who had plenty of family in the crowd.

It's unclear how much time Barnes could have to miss after Saturday, but any amount greater than zero would be bad news for the Raptors. Barnes took Rookie of the Year honors last season after averaging 15.3 points, 7.5 rebounds and 3.5 assists per game while delivering standout defense for Toronto.

Toronto Raptors forward Scottie Barnes (4) dribbles the ball against the Brooklyn Nets during the first half of an NBA basketball game, Friday, Oct. 21, 2022 in New York. (AP Photo/Noah K. Murray)
The Raptors are holding their breath with Scottie Barnes. (AP Photo/Noah K. Murray)