Kyle Lowry not expected to miss significant time with back injury

Kyle Lowry's back injury is not severe after all, reports Eric Koreen of the National Post. There's no structural damage, and he's "50/50" to play against the Bulls on Friday.

Lowry suffered the injury in the third quarter of Wednesday's game against the Timberwolves. He drove into the lane, drew a foul from Chase Budinger and landed awkwardly on his back, immediately showing signs of pain. He played through it for a few possessions but ultimately had to leave the game with 4:59 to go in the third quarter. The Raptors went on to get the win.

Lowry missing extended time would have been a significant loss for the Raptors, who are currently sitting in third place in the East, a half-game up on the Bulls. They can't afford to suffer a big swoon, so this news is encouraging for their chances of holding on to the third seed.