Darko Rajakovic calls on Canada to vote for Scotty Barnes
Toronto Raptors head coach Darko Rajaković expressed frustration after learning Scottie Barnes did not appear in the top 20 in Eastern Conference All-Star fan voting. Rajakovic spoke following Toronto’s 107-106 win over the Orlando Magic, urging Canadian fans to support Barnes and stressing the importance of fan participation. The 2021-22 NBA Rookie of the Year had 13 points and 11 rebounds as the Raptors improved to 20-14, continuing a strong season despite the lack of recognition.
TSN Sports’ Josh Levenberg reported comments from a frustrated coach on X (formerly known as Twitter), which clearly expects Raptors fans to do better.
“I’m confused and I’m very disappointed. We have to get this right. Canada needs to get this right. It starts with us… What he’s doing is what generational players are doing.”
Fan voting makes up 50% of the selection process for NBA All-Star Game starter, with this year’s game set for February 15 at the Intuit Dome in Los Angeles.
Barnes continues to make strong arguments in court. He played in all 34 games this year, averaging 19.3 points, 8.4 rebounds and 5.2 assists while showing improved efficiency all around. He shoots 50.7% from the field, 35.4% from three, and 82.8% from the free throw line. Barnes joined Nikola Jokic as the only players this season with at least 500 points, 250 rebounds, 250 assists and 25 blocks.
The return underlines Barnes’ impact on the win. Toronto shot just 39% from the field and was without RJ Barrett and Jakob Poeltl, but still erased a 21-point deficit to secure the win. Jamal Sheed sparked a rally with 19 points off the bench, while Grady Dick added 15 as the Raptors closed out the night with a 20-14 record to move into fourth place in the Eastern Conference.
2025-12-30 07:01:00
