The 2024-25 season marks the first time Scottie Barnes has held the keys to the franchise right from the start. As the franchise’s foundation, Barnes’ performance has faced more intense scrutiny this season, especially regarding his offensive play. It’s easy to understand why, as Barnes’ development on offense is likely the most important aspect of Toronto’s rebuilding process. So, has Barnes enhanced his scoring skills this season?
Before addressing Barnes’ offensive development, we need to note where he has regressed, specifically as a three-point shooter. Barnes is shooting an average of only 28.7% from beyond the arc on 5.2 attempts this season. That’s 5.4% lower from beyond the arc compared to his shooting stats for 2023-24. The area of greatest variance is his catch-and-shoot statistics. During the 2023-2024 season, Barnes made 38.5% of his 3.9 catch-and-shoot three-point attempts. This season, he has dropped to 31% on 3.4 catch-and-shoot tries.
It’s not entirely negative, as he has shown progress as a pull-up shooter, hitting 25.5% of his pull-up three-point attempts on 1.9 tries. That is an improvement from his dismal 17.5% pull-up shooting stats from 2023-24. Barnes has faced numerous injuries that would impact his shooting statistics, including a fractured orbital bone and an ankle sprain he hurried back from. Nevertheless, over the course of his career, Barnes has been significantly more aligned with the shooter he currently is compared to last season.
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