It wasn’t long ago that the Toronto Raptors were competing for Championships. Back in 2019, they were able to win a Ring during Kawhi Leonard’s first and only season with the franchise.
Today, the Raptors are very much in a rebuilding state, looking for their next franchise superstar as they build up a winning culture.
While it may just be 10 games into the season, many believe the Raptors have already found their guy.
Scottie Barnes, who was picked 4th overall in the 2021 draft, has been putting on a show so far this season, averaging 17.6 points, 8.9 rebounds, and 2.3 assists per game on 52% shooting.
He only had 8 points against the Nets on Sunday, but Kevin Durant still made sure to tell the media just how impressed he was:
Kevin Durant on Scottie Barnes: “How old is he? 19? 20? Sheesh.”
Durant said Scottie Barnes’ IQ and enthusiasm for the game is “rare” for a rookie. Durant added Barnes is only going to get better.
Kevin Durant on Scottie Barnes: "How old is he? 19? 20? Sheesh."
— Matt Brooks (@MattBrooksNBA) November 7, 2021
Blake Griffin also shared some words on him after the game:
“Body-wise, he’s NBA ready. Confident. Can score in a variety of ways. I do love that he sets hard screens, rolls, rebounds… He’s going to be good for a long time.”
Barnes, 20, was a standout prospect at Montverde Academy showing a natural talent and deep understanding of the game.
So far, he looks to be on the fast track to stardom in the NBA.
Regarding the Raptors, they still have a ways to go before they can start thinking about titles. Without Kawhi Leonard and franchise-favorite Kyle Lowry, the team is just a shell of what it used to be.
But with guys like Barnes, Pascal Siakam, and OG Anunoby, it’s clear they’re on the right track and fans certainly have a lot to be excited about.
