Toronto Raptors Start, Bench Cut: Pascal Siakam, Scottie Barnes, OG Anunoby

MIAMI, FLORIDA - OCTOBER 22: Pascal Siakam #43 of the Toronto Raptors reacts after a missed basket against the Miami Heat during the second quarter at FTX Arena on October 22, 2022 in Miami, Florida. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Megan Briggs/Getty Images) /

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INDIANAPOLIS, IN – NOVEMBER 12: Scottie Barnes #4 of the Toronto Raptors (Photo by Michael Hickey/Getty Images) /

Bench: Scottie Barnes

The Raptors need to lean on Siakam as the team’s primary scorer for the next few years (if he stays), as it might take Barnes some time before he can reach that level of ruthless efficiency. However, the Raptors would be shooting themselves in the foot if they relegate Barnes to a supporting role.

Barnes needs to fix two major components of his game. Not only does he need to fix his generally lackluster 3-point shooting, but he must become more effective at trying to create offense for himself. Luckily, the Raptors will give Barnes a ton of leeway to do so this season.

The Toronto Raptors will lean on Scottie Barnes.

Barnes has a good chance of ending up as the starting point guard, as Dennis Schroder might be better off as a high-energy Sixth Man. Barnes will be thrown into the fire in an unfamiliar spot (at least, at the professional level). Still, Rajakovic will likely be fine with riding out all the unevenness in his game.

If Barnes clicks on the offensive end, All-Star nominations will start piling up regularly. While he isn’t quite ready to surpass Siakam, the Raptors need to keep working with him and preparing for the day when he is ready to share or steal the spotlight.