Raptors Announce Brandon Ingram News After Removal From Lineup

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Gavin Groe | Last updated Mar 23, 2026 9:29 PM ET

The Toronto Raptors have dropped to the fifth seed in the Eastern Conference and will do their best to avoid free falling in the standings. If Toronto is going to stabilize, its ceiling rests on the shoulders of its All‑Stars, Scottie Barnes and Brandon Ingram.

Barnes remains one of the most impactful defensive players in the league, while Ingram attempts to match that value on the offensive end by serving as Toronto’s most reliable shot creator.

Across 68 games, the 28‑year‑old small forward has averaged 21.6 points, 5.6 rebounds and 3.7 assists while shooting 47.2% from the floor and 37.6% from beyond the arc. This is Ingram’s first full season with the Raptors after arriving at last year’s trade deadline in a deal with the New Orleans Pelicans.

Toronto Raptors forward Brandon Ingram (3) © Kevin Sousa-Imagn Images

Toronto entered Monday’s matchup against the Utah Jazz looking to get back on track after a two‑game losing streak. To make matters worse, the Raptors ruled out both Jakob Poeltl and Immanuel Quickley due to injury Monday morning.

Because of that, Ingram was expected to shoulder a larger scoring workload. Instead, the night took an unexpected turn. Ingram was originally listed in the starting lineup, as he has been for every appearance this season.

Moments before tip-off, he was removed and replaced by Ja’Kobe Walter. Shortly after, the team announced an update on his status. Gilbert Ngabo of The Toronto Star reported, “Late scratch: Raptors say Brandon Ingram is out for tonight’s game in Utah due to a right heel inflammation. Ja’Kobe Walter starts in his place.”

Late scratch: Raptors say Brandon Ingram is out for tonight's game in Utah due to a right heel inflammation. Ja'Kobe Walter starts in his place.
Also out: Immanuel Quickley and Jakob Poeltl
— Gilbert Ngabo (@dugilbo) March 24, 2026

It is a frustrating development for the Raptors, especially since Ingram was not listed on the injury report at any point before the game. It remains unclear when he sustained the injury, possibly during pregame warmups.

Toronto will now be shorthanded, and replacing a player of Ingram’s caliber is nearly impossible for this game and potentially beyond. Over the last decade, Ingram has earned one Most Improved Player award and two All‑Star selections, including his second this season with Toronto.

The Raptors can only hope the issue proves minor, because their postseason outlook depends heavily on Ingram’s availability.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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