3 Toronto Raptors players who need to improve without OG Anunoby

1. Scottie Barnes

The Raptors are fond of players who fit the Anunoby archetype, as the idea of drafting another positionless dynamo in Scottie Barnes appealed to Masai Ujiri. So far, Barnes has done everything he can to show that Toronto made the correct move picking him No. 4 overall in the draft.

Barnes has already proven to be a solid interior finisher and rebounder at this level, but Scottie may use this time to show off just how much he’s improved his game. Barnes’ defensive prowess and ability to shoot from 3-point range will be tested in the coming games.

The Toronto Raptors will give Scottie Barnes a big role without OG Anunoby.

With Anunoby on the shelf, Barnes may be tasked with filling some of his defensive responsibilities. On offense, Barnes may need to start becoming more of a shooter. This will help both his development as a player and his ability to keep Toronto hot from deep without Anunoby active.

Toronto has to be thrilled with what Scottie has provided so far, but it would be nice to see him start to take that superstar turn and become even more of an offensive threat. Barnes could also put some distance between the competition in the Rookie of the Year race.