The Toronto Raptors endured what was an absolutely grueling triple-overtime affair against the Miami Heat on Saturday night. But if it wasn't for Scottie Barnes, it never would've gotten past regulation time.
The rookie drew a foul on Jimmy Butler with less than three seconds remaining with the Raptors down two. Most 20-year-olds wouldn't have been faulted for missing one of the foul shots, but Barnes isn't most 20-year-olds. He calmly sank both shots and played a key role in (eventually) getting the win in the extra periods.
Scottie Barnes truly came clutch tonight pic.twitter.com/FB0H69Ifbw
— Libaan Osman (@libaanstar1) January 30, 2022
Barnes was asked about those critical free-throws to save the Raptors after the game. His message to himself was simple: Free throws are easy.
Via Josh Lewenberg:
Article Continues BelowWhat was going through rookie Scottie Barnes' mind when he went to the line for 2 game-saving free throws at the end of regulation? “Telling myself in my head that it's easy. Gotta knock 'em down. That's it.”
Fred VanVleet had full confidence in his rookie, claiming he had zero doubts that both shots were going in.
There was never a doubt in my mind that he was gonna knock 'em down,” said the Raptors point guard on Scottie Barnes' clutch free throws.
Scottie Barnes is the rare young rookie that's ready to contribute right away. He proved it once again against the Heat when it mattered most.