Raptors, Bucks each missing key players

The Associated Press

Published January 5, 2009 at 6:16 p.m.
Updated January 5, 2009 at 7:53 p.m.

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MILWAUKEE (AP) — Raptors center Jermaine O'Neal and guard Jose Calderon were not with the team when Toronto began a two-game road trip Monday night against the Bucks.

Milwaukee was without center Andrew Bogut for the second straight game because of back spasms, and coach Scott Skiles didn't sound optimistic he'd have his big man back before the Bucks' next game Wednesday night.

Bogut is averaging 11.5 points and 10.5 rebounds per game and was replaced in the lineup by Dan Gadzuric. Milwaukee is 0-4 in games the 7-foot center has missed this season, and 3-21 overall without Bogut since he was drafted No. 1 overall in 2005.

Raptors coach Jay Triano said O'Neal and Calderon are doubtful to return before the trip ends Wednesday night in Washington.

O'Neal is still nursing a sore right knee and missed his fourth straight game. The six-time All-Star is averaging 14 points and seven rebounds, but has missed 49 games the past two seasons with knee and ankle injuries.

Calderon left Wednesday's game against Denver after straining his right hamstring driving to the basket. He is averaging 13.1 points and 8.7 assists per game.

Forward Andrea Bargnani made his fourth start in place of O'Neal and guard Will Solomon replaced Calderon.

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