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Raptors Have Options to Replace Kawhi Leonard in Lineup; What Should Jorge Fernandez Do and When Will Leonard Return?

Toronto Raptors star forward Kawhi Leonard received bad news about his knees. After sitting out the Raptors' 117-94 loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves on Sunday due to swelling in his knee, Leonard learned that his absence will last longer than…

By Daniel Benjamin · Last Word on Sports

Published: Wednesday, 28 October 2026 at 1:21 AM

Key Things to Know

Writer Daniel Benjamin identifies Ja'Kobe Walter, Collin Murray-Boyles, Allen Graves, and Kyle Anderson as replacements for Kawhi Leonard.
Leonard is expected to miss several weeks due to knee swelling, though an MRI showed no structural damage.
The Raptors dropped to a 2-1 record following a 117-94 defeat against the Minnesota Timberwolves.

The Story in 60 Seconds

Toronto Raptors forward Kawhi Leonard is expected to miss multiple weeks due to swelling in his left knee caused by wear and tear. While an MRI revealed no structural damage, head coach Darko Rajakovic must adjust his starting lineup during Leonard's absence, which is projected to span at least six games.

Writer Daniel Benjamin evaluates Ja'Kobe Walter, Collin Murray-Boyles, Allen Graves, and Kyle Anderson as the four primary candidates to fill the starting vacancy. Walter started in Toronto's recent 117-94 loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves, though Benjamin notes Rajakovic may experiment with Anderson or Graves depending on matchups and offensive spacing needs.

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