Toronto Raptors: Kyle Lowry Expected to Play This Week

Kyle Lowry participated in partial practice on Monday, and while the official word is there is still no timetable for his return, the point guard is expected back for the Toronto Raptors sometime this week.

If you are wondering when Kyle Lowry will return to action for the Toronto Raptors, in many ways it comes down to your perspective on the available information. Or more to the point, whether you are a glass-half-full or empty kind of a person.

First of all though, let’s deal with what is clear, regardless of your mindset. As reported by TSN‘s Josh Lewenberg, Lowry was a partial participant in practice on Monday, which in reality meant it was more of a walkthrough.

Now, just the fact the three-time All-Star was even participating, is theoretically a good sign. However, the official word from the Raptors is that there is still no timetable for his return.

This narrative was reinforced by Lowry himself. Speaking to Sportsnet‘s Michael Grange and other members of the media after practice, he said:

"“I’ll get there when I get there. I’m going to see how I feel. There’s no guarantee when I’m coming back.”"

In terms of how the 31-year old feels, this relates to his right wrist still being sore. He admits it’s not at full strength and he is yet to put it through a full workout.

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Interestingly though, Lewenberg expects Lowry will return to the court at some point this week. While he won’t play on Tuesday against the Pacers, the Raptors face the Pistons on Wednesday and the Heat on Friday.

As an educated guess, the game against Miami seems the best bet, if the 2006 first round draft pick does indeed return this week. This would mean three games to get up to game speed, before the playoffs begin.

If Friday turns out to be too soon, Sunday’s clash with the New York Knicks should mark Lowry’s return. While this is admittedly still all just speculation, what we do know is he will make the decision of when he returns, as he told the Toronto Sun‘s Mike Ganter and other members of the media:

"“It will be me, Kyle Lowry, who is going to clear me.”"

Overall, the Raptors have had the luxury of not pushing for Lowry to return, thanks to the team going 14-6 during his absence. This has been helped by the additions of Serge Ibaka and P.J. Tucker, who have turned the team into a defensive force.

Regardless, if they are to make any noise in the playoffs, they will need the services of their best player. Prior to his injury, Lowry was having arguably his best season yet and his return can only strengthen the best roster in franchise history.

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Now it’s your turn to confirm if you are an optimist, a pessimist or just objective. Taking into account all the available information, when do you expect Lowry to return to action for the Raptors? Share your thoughts in the comments section.

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