4 key Toronto Raptors who must dominate with big names injured

1. SF Scottie Barnes

While some players have used these last few games as an opportunity to prove that they are worthy of more rotation time, Barnes has struggled with consistency and efficiency. In his last five games, the reigning Rookie of the Year is only making 33% of his shots from the field and has only scored 10 points twice.

Defense has been another problem for Barnes. While part of his appeal was being able to guard all five positions on the floor, he’s allowed multiple explosive guards to blow by him with quick dribbles. Nurse seems to believe that inconsistent energy is the culprit, but there’s only one way to prove that theory.

Will Toronto Raptors star Scottie Barnes get hot again?

Barnes is going to be fine long-term. Don’t worry. Plays like his dunk on Nikola Vucevic or his fantastic assist to Banton in the Detroit game show that his playmaking ability has not eroded at all. Consistency is key, especially now that there’s more info out related to stopping him.

Development is not going to be linear for anyone, and Barnes is no exception. However, the Raptors will need him to make around half of his shots when the big names come back. Toronto needs to do whatever it takes to get him right, as it’s clear as day that he is a star in the making.