The Toronto Raptors have been 7.5 points per 100 possessions better with Kyle Lowry on the court during the playoffs this season.
Which means if Toronto is going to dig out of its 0-2 hole vs. Cleveland in its second-round series it could use Lowry. But they are at least starting Game 3 without him.
Lowry sprained his ankle in Game 2 and he is available for coach Dwane Casey in Game 3, but he will come off the bench. Cory Joseph got the start. It’s unclear how much Lowry will play and how effective he would be on the court.
Casey also returned to starting Jonas Valanciunas at center against the Cavaliers, hoping his team is more physical in Game 3.
