Toronto Raptors forward Brandon Ingram has had a disappointing start to his first playoff run with the organization. The 28-year-old was one of Toronto’s most reliable offensive players during the regular season, averaging 21.5 points, 5.6 rebounds and 3.7 assists while shooting 47.7% from the field and 38.2% from beyond the arc across 77 games.
But through four games against the Cleveland Cavaliers, he has struggled to find that same rhythm. Ingram has totaled just 59 points, committed nine turnovers and shooting 33.9% from the floor, a steep drop-off from his regular season production.
He did earn his second career All-Star selection this year, and he has been determined to show he can deliver on the postseason stage.
© Kevin Sousa-Imagn Images
During Wednesday’s Game 5 in Cleveland, the Raptors entered with momentum after winning two straight at home to even the series. Ingram, however, got off to another rough start, missing his first two shots and committing a turnover in his first 11 minutes of action.
Then, he suffered an unfortunate setback. Before halftime, Ingram headed to the locker room with an apparent injury.
Moments later, the Raptors ruled him out for the remainder of the game with a right heel issue. “Raptors say Brandon Ingram (Right Heel; Inflammation) will not return,” reported Marc J. Spears of ESPN.
Ingram dealt with right heel inflammation late in the regular season, causing him to miss three games, and the problem has unfortunately resurfaced at the worst possible time. Ja’Kobe Walter started the second half in his place and should see increased minutes if Ingram remains sidelined.
His next chance to suit up will be Friday for Game 6 at home. Although he has struggled throughout the series, the Raptors are undoubtedly a better team with Ingram on the floor, making his health one of the defining factors in how the rest of this matchup plays out.
