Raptors' Jonas Valanciunas making progress toward return

TORONTO -- Toronto Raptors coach Dwane Casey sounded more optimistic than he has recently that center Jonas Valanciunas could make his return for Game 4 of the Eastern Conference finals Monday night against the Cleveland Cavaliers.

Valanciunas was listed as doubtful Sunday but went through shootaround Monday morning and was upgraded to questionable later in the day. Casey said "we'll see" when asked about his availability. The center has been out with a sprained right ankle since he injured it in Game 3 of the second round.

Valanciunas would provide the Raptors with a much-needed scoring presence on the interior. Prior to being hurt, he was averaging 15 points and 12.1 rebounds per game during the playoffs.

Backup Bismack Biyombo has filled in admirably in place of Valanciunas, and he posted a franchise postseason record 26 rebounds in Game 3.

The Cavaliers lead the series 2-1.