Breakdown
Performance
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January 25, 2026
No timeline for return
The Raptors announced Sunday that Poeltl returned to Toronto to receive targeted pain relief treatment for his back injury and doesn't have an established timeline to return to the court, Blake Murphy of Sportsnet.ca reports.
Analysis
Poeltl has been managing the back issue since the start of the season and hasn't played since suffering an aggravation of the injury Dec. 21. The Raptors noted that an update on Poeltl's status will be established once he resumes practicing, but at this point, he looks closer to week-to-week than day-to-day. Rookie first-rounder Collin Murray-Boyles (thumb) and veteran Sandro Mamukelashvili should continue to handle expanded roles at center for as long as Poeltl is sidelined.
January 22, 2026
Not with team, seeing specialist
Poeltl (back) isn't with the Raptors on their road trip and is seeing a specialist in Toronto on Thursday, Michael Grange of Sportsnet.ca reports.
Analysis
Poeltl has been sidelined since Dec. 21 due to a strained lower back, and he isn't traveling with the team on its West Coast road trip so he can see a specialist. Considering he is in Toronto and doesn't appear close to playing, it's probably safe to rule him out for the remainder of the road trip, which ends Sunday against Oklahoma City.
January 21, 2026
Listed out Wednesday
Poeltl (back) is out for Wednesday's game against the Kings.
Analysis
Poeltl still has no timetable for a return due to a lower-back strain. Sandro Mamukelashvili should continue to play a significant role at center Wednesday, especially with rookie first-rounder Collin Murray-Boyles (thumb) joining Poeltl on the sidelines.
January 20, 2026
Won't go vs. Warriors
Poeltl (back) has been ruled out for Tuesday's game against Golden State.
Analysis
Poeltl hasn't seen the floor since Dec. 21 after suffering a back injury. He was cleared to participate in contact drills Jan. 5, but the team has failed to provide an update since then.