Toronto Raptors star centre Jakob Poeltl remains sidelined with a strained lower back and continues to be without a definitive return timetable, the team confirmed on Sunday. The 30-year-old Austrian has not played since Dec. 21, 2025, missing at least 17 games as he manages ongoing discomfort and recovery.
Poeltl has returned to Toronto to receive targeted pain relief treatment, but Raptors officials said they will update his status only once he resumes practicing with the team. Until then, there is no established timeline for his return to active competition.
The absence of Poeltl, a key defensive and rebounding presence, has left a notable gap in Toronto’s frontcourt rotation as the Raptors navigate the middle of the NBA regular season. Poeltl’s performance this season — averaging respectable scoring and rebounding numbers — had been a stabilizing factor when healthy.
Injuries and recovery setbacks remain a significant concern for the Raptors, a team still pursuing a strong playoff position in the Eastern Conference. While other players have stepped into expanded roles in Poeltl’s absence, the Raptors are challenged to adapt on both ends of the court without their starting centre.
Toronto coaches and training staff will continue monitoring Poeltl’s progress and provide updates as his rehabilitation progresses, but for now the team must proceed with rotating lineups and internal adjustments to compensate for his extended absence.
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