Raptors’ depth goes front and centre

Jonas Valanciunas played some of the best basketball of his career in the pre-season and to start the regular campaign, but a sprained left ankle has knocked him out of action for at least Monday’s game in San Antonio against the Spurs.

The team said Sunday that Valanciunas travelled with the team and they will continue to evaluate his condition.

It is not the same ankle he sprained in the playoffs against the Miami Heat two years ago.

Luckily for the Raptors, few NBA teams are as equipped to withstand the loss of a starting centre. Backup Jakob Poeltl scored a career-best 14 points, along with five rebounds and a couple of blocks, in 17 minutes in Saturday’s 128-94 victory over the Philadelphia 76ers.

Lucas Nogueira complemented Poeltl’s effort with a game-high nine rebounds, adding 10 points and a rambunctious defensive effort against the Sixers.

“We don’t want to lose anybody, but it’s good to have the luxury — and it is a luxury — to have three quality centres the way we have with Lucas and Jakob,” Raptors head coach Dwane Casey said after the game before Valanciunas went for an MRI.

“Lucas on any other team would be your backup … The unfortunate thing for him is he’s playing behind Jakob and J.V., and we haven’t even got to Serge (Ibaka) at the five yet.”

It isn’t easy for Nogueira to stay ready, but he always seems to answer the call when needed.

“Lucas is a quality player. He’s one of our best rollers, catchers, great hands, good basketball IQ. He’s a luxury for us,” Casey said.

“Lucas is always going to be a big part of our team,” teammate Kyle Lowry added.