The Toronto Raptors caused confusion in the most recent NBA Draft in July when they favored Scottie Barnes over Jalen Suggs in the fourth round. Even if the career of each of the young men is only taking off, it is clear that the only Canadian team on the Silver circuit made the right choice.
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The two rookies were pitted against each other for the first time on an NBA floor on Friday at the Scotiabank Arena, and the Raptors member proved he deserved to be selected just before the Magic Orlando does not set his sights on Suggs, fifth in the draft.
Barnes converted nine of his 14 throws and all of his two free throws, for 21 points, in addition to adding nine rebounds and an assist. He also showed off his defensive flair, with two steals and one blocked shot.
Although Suggs had his best game since the start of the season, with 21 points, the Toronto fans seemed unimpressed. Several songs echoed in the Toronto amphitheater where one could hear: “Scottie is better”.
“They’re going to do whatever they want to do,” Barnes said after the game, of the fans screaming. They love me [à Toronto] and they show it to me. “
Comparisons between the two are unlikely to fade given the debate surrounding their draft selection, but the advantage belongs to Barnes after six games.
The Raptors player preserved an average of 17.7 points per game, the second best among NBA rookies. He also leads the rookies in rebounds per game, at 8.3. He also distributed 2.2 assists per game (6th).
For his part, Suggs is averaging 13.2 points (5th), 3.3 rebounds (9th) and 3.7 assists (2nd). Despite all the comparisons, the Magic player only feels respect for his opponent.
“Scottie is really excellent. He’s like a brother to me, Suggs revealed to the media before the duel. To see him achieve success at the highest level only makes me feel proud of him. “
“Obviously, it will be a competition every time we face each other,” added Barnes. It was very pleasant. ”
The second clash between the two will again take place at the Scotiabank Arena on December 20.
