Kyle Lowry's return is near.
According to Michael Grange of Sportsnet, Toronto Raptors head coach Nick Nurse told reporters on Friday that Lowry is targeting Dec. 1 as a return date. That would mean Lowry will miss the next four games and play in Toronto's matchup with the Utah Jazz to start the month of December.
Lowry (thumb) is targeting Dec.1 for his return, according to Nurse. Ibaka (ankle) not likely for Saturday vs. Atlanta. McCaw (knee) moving well; ahead of schedule but no timetable.
— Michael Grange (@michaelgrange) November 22, 2019
The Raptors have been without Lowry since he fractured his left thumb in the team's win over the New Orleans Pelicans on Nov. 8. The Raptors are 4-2 since his injury, with wins coming against the Los Angeles Lakers, Portland Trail Blazers, Charlotte Hornets and Orlando Magic.
Lowry was averaging 21.8 points, 6.5 assists and 4.3 rebounds per game prior to his injury. He was shooting 47.8 percent from the field and 42.6 percent from 3-point range, both of which are the highest marks of his career.
Lowry's injury has opened up more minutes for Norman Powell, who has replaced him in the starting lineup. Matt Thomas and Terence Davis have also seen their minutes increase.
With a 10-4 record, the Raptors currently have the fourth-best record in the Eastern Conference behind the Milwaukee Bucks (12-3), Boston Celtics (11-3) and Miami Heat (10-3).