Raptors news: Precious Achiuwa injured, offseason given “F” grade

The Toronto Raptors will likely lean on Scottie Barnes and Pascal Siakam in the 2023 season as they try to avoid another disaster, but the contributions of Precious Achiuwa can’t be understated. Toronto is expecting big things in what will be his third season with the club.

With Christian Koloko working his way back from a respiratory problem that has plagued him for months, Achiuwa could hit the ground running as an impact rotation player. However, Toronto will need to wait a bit before he is properly unleashed.

Achiuwa strained his groin during Raptors practice, which will officially rule him out for Toronto’s debut preseason game against the Sacramento Kings. His status for the rest of the preseason and the season opener against the Minnesota Timberwolves remains in doubt.

Achiuwa averaged just under 10 points per game last season while continuing to establish himself as a tremendous defender and top-shelf athlete who could make some noise in a new offensive-minded system. Alas, it might take some time before he can be properly unveiled.

More Raptors news

• Ahead of their intersquad scrimmage at Simon Fraser University, the player’s union (NBPA) made a $10,000 donation to the Teaching Support Staff Union (TSSU). Veteran shooting guard signing Garrett Temple played a part in this, as he is the vice president of the player’s union.
• Bleacher Report continued to rip the Raptors’ offseason, giving them a grade of “F” when looking at their offseason as a whole. Unsurprisingly, losing Fred VanVleet and refusing to pick a direction received the most criticism. One odd bit of rancor from B/R was directed at Jakob Poeltl’s big contract despite how well he performed with the Raptors.

NBA news

• Sensational San Antonio Spurs rookie Victor Wembanyama, who stands at a robust 7-4, has hinted he can play every position on the floor. Yes, that includes playing on the wing and even at point guard. Wembanyama said there are “no limitations” on what he can do on the floor.
• Miami Heat guard Tyler Herro finally told NBA.com what he was feeling after being connected to Damian Lillard trade rumors all offseason long. “I’ve gotten paid, and that plays a little bit into it, but mentally, I just want to be where I’m wanted…I feel like the Heat still trust me and believe in me and all of that. I’m happy I’m here.

Will Achiuwa miss a ton of time for the Raptors? Let’s hope not.

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