DeMar DeRozan is expected to return to the Toronto Raptors lineup Wednesday or Friday, according to coach Dwane Casey.

Casey was confident the star guard will be ready to play this week against the Philadelphia 76ers or Atlanta Hawks but will have minute restrictions upon returning.

DeRozan hasn't played since he tore a tendon in his groin on Nov. 28 in a loss to the Dallas Mavericks.

The Raptors are 12-9 since the injury and have lost five of their last six to fall out of top spot in the Eastern Conference.

DeRozan is averaging 19.4 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 1.2 assists in 16 games this season. He is shooting 39 per cent from the field and 82.3 per cent from the foul line.