Is Karl-Anthony Towns playing tonight against Toronto Raptors? Latest injury update for Knicks star (Dec. 9)

Karl-Anthony Towns' is available to play for the New York Knicks Monday's game against the Toronto Raptors. He was on the injury report, citing a right knee patellar tendinopathy injury, but was later upgraded to available. Towns also missed Saturday's contest against the Detroit Pistons because of the ailment. The Knicks lost that game 120-111 in his absence.

He's become a crucial part of their offensive schemes amid his budding chemistry with his new teammates. Towns is averaging 25.2 points, 13.2 rebounds and 3.0 assists, shooting an impressive 53.1% from the floor, including 45.0% from 3 on 5.2 attempts.

He has raised his floor defensively over the past few games, too. Amid a 9-2 run over the past 11 games before Saturday's loss to Detroit, New York had a 124.6 offensive and a respectable 113.5 defensive rating.

The Knicks would hope Towns is available to play against the Raptors. While Toronto is a relatively easier opponent, the Knicks' lack of depth at center hurts their chances of racking up seemingly guaranteed wins when Towns isn't in the lineup.

Karl-Anthony Towns stats vs. Toronto Raptors

Karl-Anthony Towns has played 14 games against the Toronto Raptors, averaging 19.8 ppg, 10.1rpg and 2.7 apg. He doesn't have the best of records against the Eastern Conference team after ending up on the winning side just four times. Towns will hope to make it five wins if he plays the game.

After showing signs of life with back-to-back wins, the 7-17 Raptors have recorded two consecutive losses entering Monday's game. A Knicks win should be likely, especially if Karl-Anthony Towns suits up.

How to watch New York Knicks vs. Toronto Raptors game?

NBA TV will nationally televise the New York Knicks-Toronto Raptors game. MSG Network will provide local coverage of the game in New York. Viewers without TV access in the U.S. or outside the country can watch the contest live on NBA League Pass. The game will begin at 7:30 p.m. ET at Scotiabank Arena, the Raptors' homecourt. The Knicks are -6-point favorites to win with a -245 money line.