Lowry scores 19 in return vs. Knicks

Kyle Lowry scored 19 points in his return to the lineup Sunday, but it wasn't enough as the Toronto Raptors fell 102-96 to the New York Knicks.

The veteran floor general assumed his starting role and didn't show much rust, shooting 5-of-10 from the field to go along with seven boards, six assists, and three steals.

Lowry missed the previous six games due to a toe infection. Toronto went 3-3 during his absence.

The six-time All-Star is having another solid campaign, averaging 17 points and shooting nearly 40% from deep while ranking 11th in the Association with 7.3 assists per contest.

Lowry's backcourt partner Fred VanVleet was out for his fifth consecutive game due to a hip injury, while fellow starter OG Anunoby got Sunday night off to rest.

The Raptors are now 21-33 on the season but remain two games back of the Chicago Bulls for the final play-in tournament spot.