Raptors' Weems close to returning

Sonny Weems was back at practice Tuesday, back to his trash-talking routine with DeMar DeRozan with the hope of getting back into Toronto’s rotation.

Whether Weems’ extended stay on the inactive list ends Wednesday night against the visiting Atlanta Hawks will all depend on how his ailing back holds up.

But Weems was encouraged following Toronto’s workout, being able to run up and down the floor, even though he admits any sudden movement caused some discomfort.

“I feel happy,’’ Weems said. “I looked at DeMar when I was guarding him and he told me I wasn’t ready for this. I told him he could be right because I’m not 100%, but I’m getting there.”

If his back doesn’t lock up on him Wednesday morning, there’s a good chance Weems will at least be available for the first in 11 games.

Weems suffered a setback on Saturday when the Raptors convened to prepare for Sunday’s matinee against the visiting Sacramento Kings.

“If I don’t have to strain myself to get out of bed, that’ll be a good sign for me,’’ Weems said. “If that doesn’t happen, I should be ready to go.”