Raptors' Carroll will play vs. Hawks

Coach Dwane Casey said that Carroll (ankle) would be available for Friday's game against the Hawks, but wouldn't commit to the forward in a starting role.

Analysis:

Carroll missed Wednesday's win over the Pelicans with the left ankle sprain, but after practicing Thursday, it looks like the worst of the injury is behind him. Though Carroll is now reasonably healthy, he's been largely unproductive over his last six games with averages of 5.2 points (on 32.4% shooting from the field), 4.7 rebounds and 1.3 assists in 27.5 minutes per contest, so it appears Casey could opt to reassess the veteran's status as a starter. P.J. Tucker, who played 38 minutes and provided eight points and six rebounds Wednesday, would represent Carroll's main challenger for duties as the small forward on the top unit.