RJ Barrett has been quietly having a productive 2024-25 season, but the Raptors' inconsistent performances have kept his talents largely unnoticed. Despite the team's struggles, late-season tanking efforts, and a series of injuries early in the year, Barrett has emerged as one of Toronto's most active players during this challenging time.
Barrett has been impressively steady this season, averaging 21.5 points per game with a solid shooting percentage of 47.3% from the field and 35.9% from three-point range. This level of performance makes a 20+ point game for Barrett feel like a regular occurrence.
However, it's been a while since he’s recorded a 30+ point game. Lately, he’s been in and out of the rotation for rest and with others on the Raptors stepping up, the scoring responsibilities have been shared, easing the burden on Barrett.
Well, fast forward to the Raptors' matchup against Philly on March 30, where RJ Barrett broke out in a huge way, being Toronto's driving force behind a commanding 127-109 victory. Barrett recorded 31 points on 54.5% shooting from the field and an impressive 4-for-7 on his three-pointers (57.1%), along with five rebounds and five assists, all in just over 28 minutes of playing time. He also led the Raptors with a team-high +19 in plus/minus.
It was Barrett's first game scoring 30 points or more since December 16, 2024, when he put up 32 points against the Chicago Bulls. While Barrett emerged as the star for Toronto on March 30, the Raptors' franchise player, Scottie Barnes, looked like a shadow of his usual self in the game against the 76ers.
Barrett takes over against 76ers, while Barnes takes the back seat
Barnes struggled to find his rhythm against Philly, finishing with just nine points on 33.3% shooting from the field and missing both of his three-point attempts. He did manage to grab five rebounds, dish out four assists, and record one steal, but it wasn't enough to shine.
This wasn't the kind of Raptors game where Barnes could thrive alongside a standout player; instead, it highlighted his struggles, especially considering the matchup was relatively easy.
Barnes remains an exceptional player, but with each passing game, I’m increasingly convinced that his focus is solely on finishing the 2024-25 season. Given that the Raptors aren’t likely to make the playoffs and are just riding out the season, it seems Barnes may have mentally checked out a bit early, and he’s not putting forth his best effort anymore.
Don’t get me wrong—I still believe Barnes has a strong work ethic and his kind-hearted character goes without question. However, this season has been tough and exhausting for the Raptors, and it's not hard to see how it might have impacted the mindset of several players. That said, it’s still important to hold Barnes accountable during games where he should be performing better; there are no excuses for not showing up when it matters.
I think Barnes is more excited to support the Raptors when they're ready to compete at a higher level next season. As for Barrett, I really hope there's a chance for him to stay in his hometown, even if recent rumors suggested that Toronto explored trades for him before the deadline.