Raptors' DeMar DeRozan: Drops 31 in return Monday

DeRozan (ankle) scored 31 points (11-22 FG, 2-3 3Pt, 7-9 FT) while adding five rebounds, two assists and one steal across 38 minutes in Monday's 118-109 victory over the Clippers.

Analysis:

After missing the last four games and seven of the last eight contests with a sore right ankle, DeRozan returned to starting lineup with no minute restriction, as he ended up tying backcourt mate Kyle Lowry for the most playing time on the Raptors. DeRozan excelled in the mid-range game and at getting to the free-throw line as usual, and his production from the outside was also a pleasant surprise. It didn't look like the injury inhibited him at all Monday, so fantasy owners who weren't able to activate DeRozan yet would be advised to do so before the Raptors' next game Wednesday against the Timberwolves.