Injury Report: Malachi Flynn Fractures Cheekbone, Will Wear Mask Upon Return

Toronto Raptors guard Malachi Flynn underwent surgery to correct a fracture in his left cheek, the team announced

Malachi Flynn is expected to miss some time following surgery to correct a fracture to his left cheekbone, the Toronto Raptors announced Wednesday.

The injury occurred in the third quarter of Sunday's preseason opener against the Utah Jazz. He briefly checked out of the game where he was checked by doctors and cleared concussion protocols, the team said, before returning.

Flynn will wear a mask when he returns to the court this year, which is expected to be before the start of the regular season on Oct. 19, the Raptors said.

With Flynn sidelined, expect Jeff Dowtin Jr. and Dalano Banton to see more playing time as the backup point guard in the preseason. They should see minutes Wednesday night in Toronto's second preseason game.

For Flynn, the injury is a setback after what had been an impressive start to the year. He received praise from Raptors coach Nick Nurse for a standout training camp and nailed both of his three-pointers during the preseason opener. 

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