The Toronto Raptors haven’t been able to celebrate a ton of victories this year, as the franchise has had to sit through some nauseating losses and big trades. Even as Scottie Barnes continues to shine as bright as ever, the Raptors stud isn’t viewed as an elite player.
Barnes was not selected to the 2024 NBA All-Star Game in Indianapolis, breaking what would have been a three-year streak in which a Raptor has made it to the game’s midseason exhibition. Barnes realized the issues that come with playing in a smaller (in the eyes of the NBA) market and on a losing team.
There is still a sliver of hope that Barnes could make the festivities as an injury replacement. Due to an unfortunate knee problem starter Joel Embiid is working through and Julius Randle’s shoulder ailment, these two deserving players will not be able to perform in this game.
The Raptors could see their fan favorite named to the All-Star game as an injury replacement for either Embiid or Randle. It may be unlikely, but there is still a chance that someone realizes Barnes’ performance this year is worth some extra adulation from the league.
