One question will loom over every decision the Raptors make this offseason

"With every one of those decisions, GM Bobby Webster and head coach Darko Rajaković have to ask themselves this question above anything else: How does this player fit next to Scottie Barnes? Scottie Barnes is the center of the Raptors' universe Scottie Barnes is the Raptors' most important player right now and one of two (or three, depending on your stance on Ja'Kobe Walter) players who should be absolutely untouchable in any trade talks this summer."

"Barnes anchors the Raptors' defense with his ability to guard any position and any star player. He has also been key to the Raptors' offense, handling the playmaking responsibilities with Immanuel Quickley sidelined and taking his scoring to another level in the playoffs. Due to his versatility-he can play and guard multiple positions, depending on the team's needs-it's pretty simple to make players fit next to Barnes."

"Still, some things are difficult, like playing too many below-average shooters. Barnes is a 30.1% 3-point shooter for his five seasons in the NBA, and the Raptors struggled to space the floor with him, Jakob Poeltl, and RJ Barrett all on the floor at the same time. Barnes did shoot 38.1% on three attempts per game over seven playoff games, though, so maybe he is on his way to adding a more consist"

The Raptors face a busy offseason after a Game 7 first-round loss to the Cleveland Cavaliers. They have momentum from reaching the playoffs and extending their season despite injuries to Immanuel Quickley and Brandon Ingram. Roster changes may involve difficult choices, including potential trade consideration for RJ Barrett, Brandon Ingram, Jakob Poeltl, and Gradey Dick, while also evaluating talent from across the league and college ranks to improve offense. GM Bobby Webster and head coach Darko Rajaković must focus on how each player fits next to Scottie Barnes. Barnes anchors defense by guarding any position and star, and he contributes to offense through playmaking and scoring, especially when Quickley was sidelined. Fit is generally manageable due to Barnes’ versatility, but spacing can be harmed by below-average shooting, including a 30.1% career 3-point rate, with floor spacing issues when multiple players share the court.

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