“Scottie Barnes, SF, Raptors
The only fly in the ointment is that Barnes sprained his foot in Toronto’s final preseason game; hopefully it ends up being a minor injury and he’s back soon.
If that isn’t an issue, I’m extremely bullish on a Barnes breakout, which is part of the reason I’m more bullish than most about Toronto in general.
The 2022 Rookie of the Year had a meh sophomore campaign that coincided with the Raptors’ general malaise, but with more on-ball reps, renewed focus and a bit more shooting accuracy, the 22-year-old Barnes may end up rivaling Pascal Siakam as the Raptors’ first option this season.
He showed why in a brilliant preseason, making seven of his 14 3-point attempts (fingers crossed) while also pumping in 74 points in 89 minutes. Defensively, he underwhelmed a bit last season despite size and mobility but registered an encouraging 11 stocks (steals + blocks) in his four preseason games. He added seven more stocks, eight rebounds and 17 points in Toronto’s opening win.
Barnes finished with a glittering 31.6 PER on 72.0 percent true shooting in preseason. Barnes already stuffed the stat sheet in rebounds and assists, but now he has a chance to add a 20-point scoring average on decent efficiency to his bottom line, which could thrust him into fringe All-Star consideration.”
Hollinger’s NBA All-Breakout Team:
Jamal Murray, PG, Nuggets
Mikal Bridges, SF, Nets
LaMelo Ball, PG, Hornets
Tyrese Maxey, SG, 76ers
Jonathan Kuminga, SF/PF, Warriors
Deandre Ayton, C, Trail Blazers
Mark Williams, C, Hornets
Jabari Smith Jr., PF, Rockets
Anthony Edwards, SG, Timberwolves
Scottie Barnes, SF, Raptors
Austin Reaves, SG, Lakers
Chet Holmgren, C, Thunder
Isn’t have Chet there, kinda like having Wemby or any rookie really?