Oklahoma City Thunder vs Toronto Raptors: Injury Reports and Game Preview for February 24, 2026
The Oklahoma City Thunder are set to clash with the Toronto Raptors on February 24, 2026, in a highly anticipated NBA matchup at Scotiabank Arena. Oklahoma City currently leads the Western Conference with an impressive 44-14 record, while Toronto holds a playoff spot in the Eastern Conference with a 33-23 standing. Despite their strong positions, both teams are navigating significant injury challenges that could influence the game's outcome.
Oklahoma City Thunder Injury Report and Rotation Adjustments
The Thunder will be without several key starters due to injuries. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is out with an abdominal strain, and Jalen Williams is sidelined with a hamstring injury. Additionally, Ajay Mitchell remains unavailable due to abdominal and ankle issues. Thomas Sorber is out long-term with a torn ACL.
Several players are listed as questionable, including Chet Holmgren with back spasms, Alex Caruso with a left ankle injury, and Aaron Wiggins with a right hip issue. The team continues to rely on its young core, with potential adjustments in the rotation to compensate for these absences.
Toronto Raptors Injury Report and Available Options
Toronto faces its own injury woes, with Jakob Poeltl out due to a lower back strain and Chucky Hepburn unavailable while on a G League assignment for a knee issue. Key players Immanuel Quickley (ankle), Ja’Kobe Walter (hip), and Collin Murray-Boyles (thumb) are all questionable for the game.
This leaves Scottie Barnes and RJ Barrett as the primary available options to lead the offense. Toronto is building around Barnes, with support from younger talents like Gradey Dick and Jonathan Mogbo, aiming to maintain competitiveness despite the injury setbacks.
Team Statistics and Performance Analysis
Oklahoma City has been one of the most efficient teams this season, ranking high in both offense and defense. They average 119.5 points per game, placing fifth in the league, and allow only 107.7 points per game, leading the NBA in defensive efficiency. The team excels in steals and blocks, contributing to their top net rating of +11.7.
In contrast, Toronto averages 113.7 points per game, ranking 23rd, but allows 112.1 points per game, placing seventh defensively. The Raptors rely heavily on ball movement, averaging 29.2 assists per game, and have a slight edge in rebounding compared to the Thunder. Key stats include:
- Points per Game: Thunder 119.5, Raptors 113.7
- Opponent Points per Game: Thunder 107.7, Raptors 112.1
- Field Goal Percentage: Thunder 48.6%, Raptors 47.2%
- Three-Point Percentage: Thunder 36.5%, Raptors 34.4%
- Rebounds per Game: Thunder 43.7, Raptors 43.0
- Net Rating: Thunder +11.7, Raptors +1.7
Game Outlook and Strategic Considerations
Oklahoma City will need to adjust their strategy without Gilgeous-Alexander and Williams, potentially relying on Caruso to take on a larger role if he is available. Holmgren's status could significantly impact their interior defense, making his availability crucial for maintaining their defensive prowess.
Toronto will look to Barnes and Barrett to carry the offensive load, with Quickley's potential return offering valuable playmaking and ball-handling support. The game may hinge on execution, with Oklahoma City's steady defense facing off against Toronto's emphasis on passing and rebounding to control the tempo.
Recent meetings have favored Oklahoma City, but the injury dynamics add an element of unpredictability to this encounter. Fans can expect a closely contested battle as both teams leverage their depth to overcome adversity and secure a vital victory.
