Toronto — When Kawhi Leonard rejoined the Raptors this summer, the franchise’s ceiling appeared to shift dramatically. But for Scottie Barnes, the expectations placed upon him have remained constant throughout his five-year tenure in Toronto.
“Every meeting that we’ve had, starting with Masai when he was here, was always win-win-win,” Barnes told reporters during Toronto’s Media Day on Monday. “Our goal is to win a championship, and that’s always been the expectation.”
A Defensive Anchor Emerges
Barnes established himself as the backbone of Toronto’s defence last season, averaging 18.1 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 5.9 assists per contest. His impact was felt most profound on the defensive end, where he posted career-best marks of 1.5 blocks and 1.4 steals per game, helping anchor the Raptors’ fifth-ranked unit.
The addition of Leonard—a two-time Defensive Player of the Year and seven-time All-Defensive selection—only strengthens what was already a formidable defensive core in Toronto.
Coach Sets New Targets for Forward’s Growth
Head coach Darko Rajakovic has identified a specific milestone for Barnes this season: earning a spot on the NBA’s All-Defensive First Team.
“When you look at the way Scottie contributes to the team, it always starts with defence,” Rajakovic explained. “I believe that his goal—and what he needs to achieve this year—is he’s going to be on the first team All-Defensive Team.”
Rajakovic felt Barnes was unjustly relegated to the second team last season alongside Victor Wembanyama, Chet Holmgren, Ausar Thompson, Rudy Gobert, and Derrick White.
“That was not fair,” the coach added. “He deserved to be on the All-Defensive first team.”
Barnes Responds to Snub with Determination
p>”I know I’m one of the best defensive players in the world,” Barnes stated confidently. “I do what I do, and I make an impact on that floor every single night.”
The slight of missing out on the top defensive honour clearly motivated Barnes, who admitted feeling disrespected by his second-team placement.
“It’s whatever,” he said. “I don’t want to say how I really feel, but it just felt kind of disrespectful that I didn’t make it. I know for sure I’ll be on there this year. Make that statement.”
Playoff Lessons Drive Off-Season Improvements
Barnes’ star rose highest during Toronto’s first-round playoff series against the Cleveland Cavaliers, where he took on challenging assignments including future Hall of Famer James Harden.
Reflecting on that experience, Barnes acknowledged areas for growth heading into the new campaign.
“I think I still had a lot more that I could have done,” he said. “Offensively, looking at some numbers over the years, working on my offensive game in ISO situations and late-game scenarios where I feel I can take that next level.”
“Of course, I can get downhill and try to get to my spots and do those things, but just trying to figure out moves that I can really go to, and being more of a threat, having that aggressive mindset every time I come down the court.”
Team Chemistry Takes Shape
With Leonard now firmly entrenched in Toronto’s rotation, Barnes expressed optimism about breaking through the playoff barrier that has defined recent Raptors seasons.
“We’ve got to get over that hump in the playoffs, for sure,” Barnes noted. “I think with the addition we’ve made, it’s definitely going to help us get over our hump.”
“It’s step by step, and it’s a process, but I think we’re heading toward that right direction.”
Why it Matters
For a franchise seeking to return to its championship-contending roots, Scottie Barnes represents both the present foundation and future cornerstone. His evolution into an elite two-way player—combined with Kawhi Leonard’s veteran presence—positions Toronto to finally break free from early playoff exits. Barnes’ pursuit of defensive recognition adds another layer of motivation to a team that believes it has the pieces to compete at the highest level once again.