Scottie Barnes Leads Raptors to Preseason Win with 31 Points

Scottie Barnes, entering his fifth NBA season with the Toronto Raptors, has shown promising progress after a challenging preseason. Despite a slight step back in his 2025 form compared to his 2024 All-Star season, Barnes has been focused on improving his ability to attack the rim and balance finishing with passing, according to Raptors coach Darko Rajakovic. Barnes had a standout performance in the Raptors' preseason finale, scoring 31 points on efficient shooting, along with six rebounds, four assists, and three steals, helping Toronto secure a 119-114 win over the Brooklyn Nets. The Raptors are adapting to a faster-paced league with larger rotations, requiring players like Barnes to sustain intensity over 48 minutes. Though Barnes missed some early training camp days and has struggled with health in the past, his recent strong showing indicates he could thrive as a versatile player, potentially even in a point guard role if needed. The Raptors look to carry this momentum into the regular season opener against the Atlanta Hawks.