The Toronto Raptors are focusing on a new offensive strategy that enhances Scottie Barnes' skills while alleviating his responsibilities. The addition of Brandon Ingram allows the team to maintain a more structured offense, reducing isolation plays for Barnes that often led to inefficiencies. Alongside Immanuel Quickley, Ingram can facilitate ball movement and scoring opportunities, giving Barnes the chance to work effectively as an offensive connector. Improved team dynamics are expected to lead to better shot selection and higher efficiency for Barnes, moving away from being the primary shot creator.
Scottie Barnes has already proven he can handle plenty of responsibility, but the best version of him may be one who does not have to carry that burden alone. With the Toronto Raptors adding Brandon Ingram into the fold, they are beginning to craft an offensive structure that plays to Barnes' strengths rather than asking him to operate as something he is not.
Barnes can score, pass and push the pace in transition, but when teams loaded up on him or forced him into isolation looks, it sometimes led to inefficient possessions. Now, with Ingram and Immanuel Quickley able to shoulder the majority of the on-ball creation, Barnes can settle into more of an offensive connector role, where he excels most naturally.
Ingram gives Toronto a go-to option on the wing who can get to his spots and generate points at all three levels. Meanwhile, Quickley brings a steady hand in the backcourt with his growing pick-and-roll chops and a reliable jumper.
With better spacing and more creators around him, Barnes should be able to get cleaner looks and focus on high-percentage finishes around the rim or rhythm threes off ball movement. There is a chance that this version of Barnes ends up being far more effective than one who is tasked with 18 to 20-plus shot attempts a night.
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