The Toronto Raptors' multicolored, vintage-inspired court might’ve offered intriguing views from all over, but without their 7-foot, team-leading shot blocker, there was one area they hoped to prevent visitors from frequenting: the painted area. Not that it came as any surprise, but Scottie Barnes certainly had them — and any could-be scorers in Utah Jazz colors — well-covered. Having already watched his teammates hound Keyonte George with full-court, 94-feet defense throughout the first quarter, Barnes readies himself for a head-to-head try of his own, keeping connected even after George’s speed nearly threatens a blow-by attack. Like an umbrella blocking raindrops, Barnes emerges from behind, emphatically sending George’s finger roll attempt into Row A for a fierce chasedown swat. The tone was reasonably set, as the shorthanded Raptors used energy and 18 “stocks” to overwhelm Utah on March 7, 2025. Spurring the two-way charge, Barnes rattled off 22 points, 12 rebounds, six assists, two steals, three blocks, alongside seven shot contests. · Mar 8, 2025