4 very bold predictions ahead of Raptors’ 2023-24 season
By Mike Luciano
3. Scottie Barnes makes the All-Star team
The Raptors have named Barnes the herald of their next great decade, assuming he develops the way they believe he will. After a year in which his overall efficiency and production either flatlined or declined in most categories, the former Rookie of the Year is eyeing a bounce back.
Barnes certainly looked like a man on a mission in his preseason action, leading the team in points and rebounds while coming in third in assists and still mustering 63% efficiency from the field. Getting his confidence back and carving out a defined role will be key for Barnes and Rajakovic.
Will Scottie Barnes take steps forward for the Toronto Raptors?
Toronto also saw Barnes drain seven of his 14 attempts from 3-point range while flexing some improved mechanics. The fact Barnes was such a tremendous player without the threat of a jumper was impressive, but Toronto knew they needed to make a change to his style.
It will be hard to envision a world where Barnes ends up as the fourth or fifth offensive banana this season. The preseason results might be taken with a grain of salt by some, but the fact Barnes looks noticeably more well-rounded on that end of the floor is a sign that he is taking to the new offense.