Heading into a critical Game 6, the Toronto Raptors were set to face the Cleveland Cavaliers while shorthanded. Brandon Ingram was ruled out with a heel issue, which has been a lingering concern throughout the playoffs.
Before the Raptors forced a Game 7 with a tough victory over the Cavs, Raptors head coach Darko RajakoviÄ briefly addressed the state of Ingram.
The Latest on Brandon Ingram
GettyTORONTO, CANADA – APRIL 12: Brandon Ingram #3 of the Toronto Raptors celebrates a teammate’s basket against the Brooklyn Nets during the second half of their basketball game at the Scotiabank Arena on April 12, 2026 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Mark Blinch/Getty Images)
âHis heel is pretty sore,” Josh Lewenberg reported on Friday night before Game 6. “Heâs not able to go.” After the Raptors sealed their win, RajakoviÄ didn’t address the status of Ingram for Game 7. That status will come when Toronto submits its injury report.
In the meantime, RajakoviÄ remains pleased with Ingram’s replacement, Ja’Kobe Walter.
GettyTORONTO, CANADA – OCTOBER 29: Brandon Ingram #3 of the Toronto Raptors warms up before playing the Houston Rockets at Scotiabank Arena on October 29, 2025 in Toronto, Canada. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Kevin Sousa/Getty Images)
âJa’Kobe Walter is a case-study in itself. He is the guy if he plays five minutes, 35 minutes, or he doesnât play any minutes, he is the same guy, same approach, same professional preparation for every single game,” RajakoviÄ stated to reporters.
“He is going to put everything heâs got to help the team win. He ended up ending the game with 24 points and making huge plays down the stretch for us. Really proud of him, really happy for him. Weâre really blessed to have him on our team.â
GettyAustin Reaves #15 of the Los Angeles Lakers dribbles the ball against Ja’Kobe Walter #14 of the Toronto Raptors during first half action at Scotiabank Arena on December 4, 2025 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
Walter has had a steady stream of minutes throughout the first round against Cleveland. He came off the bench for the first two games, but has started since Game 3.
During Friday’s outing, which required overtime, Walter checked in for 43 minutes. He shot 53.8% from the field and hit on 44.4% of his threes. Walter produced 24 points, five rebounds, three steals, and one block.
The Raptors obviously hope they can get Ingram back in time for Game 7. However, they are clearly able to take down Cleveland in his absence.
Game 7 between the Raptors and the Cavaliers on Sunday, May 3, will tip off at 7:30 PM ET.
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