Raptors' Pascal Siakam: Could make starts during Sullinger's absence

Raptors coach Dwane Casey said that Siakam could log some starts at power forward while Jared Sullinger (foot) remains out for approximately two-to-three months, Josh Lewenberg of TSN reports.

Casey labeled veteran Patrick Patterson as the top candidate to fill in for Sullinger on the top unit for the season opener and beyond, but noted that he hasn't reached a decision yet on the matter, and could conceivably go "back and forth" between the two big men. With few other enticing options in the frontcourt, it's also possible that Casey utilizes more small-ball lineups featuring DeMarre Carroll at power forward, but Siakam should find himself locked into a rotation role nonetheless. Even so, the rookie's playing time could remain somewhat volatile, and even when he starts, Siakam may just act as a placeholder at the beginning of halves. Expect Patterson picking up the bulk of the minutes at the position most nights whether he starts or not.