Scottie Barnes took on the primary responsibility of guarding Kevin Durant during the Toronto Raptors’ victory over the Phoenix Suns on Sunday, limiting Durant to just 15 points.
Barnes, speaking with Michael Grange of Sportsnet.com, expressed confidence that his performance wasn’t a one-off.
“I think I’m a high-level defender, one of the best defenders in this league,” the forward stated.
“I’m able to be able to guard multiple positions, switch, give the ball pressure because I move really well for my size and I’m out there reading things.”
Barnes has played 4 seasons for the Raptors. He has averaged 17.2 points, 7.5 rebounds and 5.0 assists in 255 regular-season games.
He was selected to play in 1 All-Star game and has won the Rookie of the Year award.
Atlantic Notes: Boucher, Barnes, Holiday, Watford, Reese https://t.co/W5pj0iEhZt pic.twitter.com/BQ5ZV675b1
— Hoops Rumors (@HoopsRumors) February 25, 2025
