Barnes is already in his fifth season with the Raptors, but it\u2019s still evident that the 24-year-old is steadily improving, growing his skill set, and learning what it takes to be one of the best players on a competitive team.\u00a0<\/p>\n
After a 139-87 beatdown against the Magic, head coach Darko Rajakovi\u0107 noted the improvement Barnes has made in pick-and-roll situations.\u00a0<\/p>\n
\u201cWhat he really improved is his pick-and-roll game,\u201d Rajakovi\u0107 said<\/a>, \u201cthat now he\u2019s able to do a really good job of not just setting and rolling but also doing a really good job of handling the ball, playmaking, scoring out of those positions as well.\u201d<\/p>\n Being able to put Barnes in pick-and-roll situations as the ballhandler is a massive advantage for the Raptors. At 6\u20198\u201d and with his ability to attack the rim or make the right pass, Barnes is almost impossible to guard when he\u2019s coming off a good screen. Opponents also can\u2019t switch just anyone onto Barnes if they don\u2019t want to risk a mismatch he can exploit mercilessly.\u00a0<\/p>\n Putting the ball into Barnes\u2019s hands has been a recipe for success lately<\/p>\n With Immanuel Quickley out, the Raptors made a deft adjustment for their game against the Pelicans. Instead of starting Jamal Shead, Darko Rajakovi\u0107 inserted Ja\u2019Kobe Walter and his 3-point shooting<\/a> into the starting lineup and put the ball into Scottie Barnes\u2019s hands. It worked out beautifully. Barnes recorded a double-double with 23 points and 12 assists, and the Raptors secured a much-needed win.\u00a0<\/p>\n