Scottie Barnes enters his fifth NBA season still shy of his 25th birthday and remains the Raptors' face of the franchise. He assumed the role of Toronto's primary offensive option, averaging a career-high 16.4 field goal attempts per game while efficiency dropped to 44.6% overall and 27.1% from three. He matched a career-high 2.8 turnovers per game but recorded career highs in free throw attempts (4.6), defensive rebounds (6.0), and steals (1.4), along with a career-low 1.7 fouls. Injuries limited him to 65 games, yet he earned a Defensive Player of the Month nomination during a strong March stretch. Unlocking his best version may require him not being the offensive focal point.
Last season was a bit of a roller coaster for Barnes, as he stepped into the role of Toronto's number one offensive option for the first time. He averaged a career-high 16.4 field goal attempts per game, but the increased volume came at a cost-his efficiency dropped to a career-low 44.6% from the field and just 27.1% from three, both slight dips from his previous lows in his sophomore season. He also matched his career high in turnovers at 2.8 per game.
Barnes posted career highs in several key categories, including free throw attempts (4.6 per game), defensive rebounds (6.0), steals (1.4), and a career-low in personal fouls (1.7), showing growth in areas that often get overlooked. Injuries once again limited his availability-he played just 65 games, missing significant time early in the season. Still, Barnes made a strong impact when he was on the court.
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