Raptors to Open Season at Home on October 20 with Kyle Lowry's Return Slated for February

The Toronto Raptors will open the 2021-22 NBA season against the Washington Wizards and welcome Kyle Lowry and the Miami Heat to town on February 3

The Toronto Raptors appear set to return home to Toronto on October 20.

While no official go-ahead has been given for a return from the federal government, the Raptors have a home opener scheduled for October 20 against the Washington Wizards. If played at Scotiabank Arena as expected, it'll mark the 600th day between Toronto's last true home game on February 28, 2020.

The Raptors have been in constant communication with all levels of government to facilitate a return to Toronto, Raptors president and vice-chairman Masai Ujiri said Wednesday. When they do return home, things will look a little different at Scotiabank Arena where proof of a negative COVID-19 vaccine or negative COVID-19 test will be required for entrance.

If the home opener is expected to be the most emotional night of the season, February 3, when Toronto welcomes Kyle Lowry and the Miami Heat to town, will certainly be a close second.

Other key dates to circle include the road opener in Boston on October 22, Danny Green's return to Toronto on December 28, Serge Ibaka's return on December 31, Norman Powell's return on January 23, and Marc Gasol's return on March 18.

Further Reading

Masai Ujiri Is committed to Toronto and paving a new path back to the NBA mountaintop

Raptors are intent on returning to Toronto next season with no plans to play elsewhere

Kyle Lowry will be honored with "everything and some," Masai Ujiri says