The concern level on this one should be high. The team listed it like they are just giving Walker a game of rest against an inferior opponent, but his chronic knee issues make it worrying. Kemba will miss Friday’s game but do not be surprised to see him miss more time moving forward.

The 32-point guard has dealt with knee issues since leaving the Charlotte Hornets in 2019. He played just 136 games over the last three seasons, and Walker was unsigned into the regular season because of his knee. The four-time All-Star’s minutes and playing time need to be watched closely because another long-term absence could be just around the corner.

Walker was one of four Mavericks players ruled out for the Dec. 23 contest against the Rockets. Dorian Finney-Smith will miss his second straight game with an adductor injury as Maxi Kleber and Josh Green remain sidelined as well.

The two teams faced off in November (in Canada), and the Raptors won 100-88.

Six players on the Raptors scored in double-digits, and OG Anunoby led the team with 20 points.

Meanwhile, Mobley had 18 points and 15 rebounds for the Cavs.