The Toronto Raptors haven't been able to celebrate a ton of victories this year, as the franchise has had to sit through some nauseating losses and big trades. Even as Scottie Barnes continues to shine as bright as ever, the Raptors stud isn't viewed as an elite player.
Barnes was not selected to the 2024 NBA All-Star Game in Indianapolis, breaking what would have been a three-year streak in which a Raptor has made it to the game's midseason exhibition. Barnes realized the issues that come with playing in a smaller (in the eyes of the NBA) market and on a losing team.
There is still a sliver of hope that Barnes could make the festivities as an injury replacement. Due to an unfortunate knee problem starter Joel Embiid is working through and Julius Randle's shoulder ailment, these two deserving players will not be able to perform in this game.
The Raptors could see their fan favorite named to the All-Star game as an injury replacement for either Embiid or Randle. It may be unlikely, but there is still a chance that someone realizes Barnes' performance this year is worth some extra adulation from the league.
Players currently in the top 50 for PPG, RPG, APG, SPG, and BPG:
— Brett Usher (@UsherNBA) February 2, 2024
Giannis Antetokounmpo
Nikola Jokic
Joel Embiid
Scottie Barnes pic.twitter.com/Y7s0hLcZBc
Can Raptors' Scottie Barnes make All-Star Game as an injury replacement?
Barnes is averaging 20.2 points, 8.2 rebounds, and 5.7 assists per game this season, all while chipping in 1.3 steals and 1.5 blocks per game after an iffy defensive campaign last year. The fact he's done this with constant trades, rumors, and turnover around him should count for something.
Barnes will not be alone in his pursuit of an All-Star nod. Names like Trae Young, Jimmy Butler, and Mikal Bridges are just a few of the hot names that will be pushing for those two spots. Young and Bridges have stats on their side, while Butler has a history being an All-Star fixture on a postseason regular.
Barnes will need to hope his stats are viewed with the reverence they deserve instead of being written off as the byproduct of getting a ton of touches on a rebuilding team. His efficiency, defensive improvements, and consistency should all work in his favor as he tries to separate himself.