T.J. Ford doesn't think he'll be ready to play again until at least the weekend.

On any other team, losing the starting point guard for four games and counting would be great cause for concern, but not in Toronto where the tandem of Ford and Jose Calderon gives the Raptors a unique one-two combination that, when healthy, causes opposing defences fits. And when one of the two principals goes down, as is the case now, both have shown in the past they have the ability to carry the load.

"Our strength is making teams prepare for both of us. I think our styles are totally different," Ford said. "He makes smart decisions, and I think I take more risks than he does. We put pressure on defences (in a much different manner), and I think it's hard for players to (adjust). It throws the defence off its rhythm."

Ford's injury -- a stinger, which is an injury to the nerves branching off the spinal cord that send impulses down both arms -- initially resulted in shooting pain down both arms. It has since subsided to just some discomfort in his left thumb.

Ford did a little shooting and some dribbling drills yesterday, but feels it would be unwise to rush back.