Raptors bounce back with Barnes’ historic triple-double and strong bench play
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The Toronto Raptors shook off a frustrating defeat in Washington by collecting consecutive wins over the Golden State Warriors and Orlando Magic on Sunday and Monday.
Forward Scottie Barnes powered the 133-115 victory against Golden State, registering the first 20-20 triple-double in club history with 23 points, 25 rebounds and 10 assists. The 2021 draft pick remains the centerpiece of Toronto’s long-term plans despite offensive inconsistencies, head coach Darko Rajaković told reporters.
Twenty-four hours later, Barnes finished with 13 points on 5-for-12 shooting, but Toronto still edged Orlando 108-101 thanks to its reserves. Rookie guard Jamal Shead scored 19 points and dished five assists, Gradey Dick added 15 points, and undrafted forward Collin Murray-Boyles pulled down 12 boards and blocked two shots.
“Those guys are built of resiliency,” Rajaković said after the win. “They’re extremely professional, they prepare for every game and bring energy every night.”
All-Star push for Barnes
Rajaković expressed disappointment that Barnes did not appear among the top 20 Eastern Conference vote-getters in the first fan returns for the 2026 All-Star Game. “Only two players have at least 500 points, 250 rebounds, 250 assists and 25 blocks this season—Nikola Jokić and Scottie Barnes,” the coach said. “Canada, we need to get that fixed right now.”
Bamba’s opportunity
Center Mo Bamba, signed to a non-guaranteed deal over the weekend, made his Raptors debut Monday. He recorded one block and two fouls in four minutes, with Toronto outscored by nine during that span. With Jakob Poeltl sidelined by a back injury, Rajaković said Bamba will receive additional chances to secure a longer stay. The former lottery pick noted he had been in touch with the team since the G League Showcase and already knows several Raptors, including Immanuel Quickley, RJ Barrett and Barnes.
Barrett returns, sits second night
RJ Barrett scored 12 points on 5-of-13 shooting in Sunday’s win after missing time with a sprained knee, then rested Monday on the second night of the back-to-back. Teammates welcomed his presence: Toronto’s offensive rating rises to 116.6 when Barrett is on the floor, the best mark for any Raptor. “He creates so much pressure on the rim,” Barnes said. “Transition, catch-and-shoot, playmaking—he does a lot for this team.”
The Raptors (record not provided) continue their road trip later this week.
Source: HoopsRumors
