Raptors' Lowry out Wednesday with back spasms

Kyle Lowry's return to the Toronto Raptors' lineup was a brief one.

Lowry will sit out Wednesday's game against the Chicago Bulls due to back spasms after leaving Tuesday's loss in Detroit during the second quarter.

The All-Star point guard suffered a back contusion last Wednesday and missed two games because of the injury, but was ruled good to go against the Pistons.

"I'm going to make sure I'm completely and fully healthy before I even step back on the floor," Lowry said after leaving Tuesday's game.

The Raptors would be wise to ensure Lowry is completely healthy heading into the postseason, regardless of how it affects their finish to the regular season, but there's no denying the reeling team may be in trouble without their leader.

Toronto has lost 12 of 17 heading into Wednesday's meeting with the third-place Bulls, who lead the Raps by a half-game in the standings.

Lowry, who celebrates his 29th birthday on Wednesday, is averaging 17.9 points, 6.9 assists, 4.6 rebounds and 1.5 steals.