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The Toronto Raptors had a pretty eventful offseason and it’s opening the door for other young players, such as Scottie Barnes.
The former Rookie of the Year spoke to CBC News, via NBACentral, about what’s next for him and his team.
He admitted that the loss of Fred VanVleet was tough but he is looking at the silver lining.
“Losing Fred [VanVleet] was a huge loss, but it just opens up more opportunities for other people and myself,” Barnes said.
As for what’s ahead in 2023-24, Barnes said, “I feel like we’re going to do really good this year.”
“Losing Fred [VanVleet] was a huge lost, but it just opens up more opportunities for other people & myself… I feel like we’re going to do really good this year.”
Scottie Barnes on his expectations for the Raptors this season
(via @CBCNews)pic.twitter.com/Sbug8Pdvz4
— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) September 18, 2023
For the last few seasons, there have been multiple rumors of VanVleet heading to the exit and leaving the Raptors behind.
Therefore, his move to the Houston Rockets this summer wasn’t shocking, but it was painful.
He was a lynchpin for the team and Toronto’s offense often ran through him.
However, Barnes believes that his absence will allow others to flourish.
Additionally, the hiring of Darko Rajaković as the team’s new head coach could also change things up in a good way.
Barnes has been remarkably consistent since joining the league in 2021.
He averaged 15.3 points, 6.6 rebounds, and 4.8 assists last season.
If you compare that to his first season of 15.3 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 3.5 assists, you see that the young guard has become very comfortable on the floor.
But will he be comfortable leading the team more?
Now entering his third season, the player will be called upon more often by his team and new head coach.
The Raptors have felt a bit aimless and without an identity over the last few seasons.
Will Barnes be able to help them get it back in 2023-24?
The post Scottie Barnes Talks His Expectations For The Raptors appeared first on The Cold Wire.
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