DeRozan Ruled Out Before Nuggets’ Game Against Raptors

The Nuggets added DeRozan to their injury report shortly before tipoff on November 4, ruling out the veteran wing because of low-back spasms. Denver had expected to have Cameron Johnson and Alpha Diallo available despite their injuries, but DeRozan’s late absence left the team without its sixth man against Toronto.

DeRozan spent the first nine seasons of his career with the Raptors. In 21 games against Toronto since leaving the team, he has averaged 22.8 points, 5.3 assists and 4.7 rebounds. He had played in all six of Denver’s games this season, averaging 25 minutes per game.

Diallo’s return gives Denver another option, while rookie Bryce Hopkins could also see increased playing time. Hopkins, a second-round pick on a two-way contract, has started twice but had moved out of the rotation after Johnson returned. The Nuggets could also consider using Cam Whitmore off the bench to add offense.

Toronto was without Leonard, the star forward acquired by the Raptors in the 2018 trade that sent DeRozan to San Antonio. Neither player involved in that deal took the court for the matchup.