Toronto Raptors' Scottie Barnes is having a marvelous season, and it's not going unnoticed by the fans. The 2022 Rookie of the Year has now become the star of the franchise, and one of the NBA's brightest young players.

Fans have embraced Barnes, despite rumors leading up to the trade deadline that the Raptors could shake things up amid a losing season, and appear to be expressing their appreciation for the 23-year-old forward in a number of unique ways – the latest being a sort of caricature drawing.

The fan art has surfaced over social media, via Legion Hoops on X, formerly Twitter.

“Someone drew a picture of Scottie Barnes and sent it to him

Fan: “I drew you king.”

Scottie: “They trolling?”

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Barnes has developed a joyous reputation around the league, and his down-to-earth interactions with his fans – and basketball pundits alike – are proof of that. Despite the team's 11-32 record,  Barnes has lifted the spirits of the Raptors fanbase with his demeanor and performances on a nightly basis.

Scottie Barnes' 2024-25 Raptors campaign

Jan 15, 2025; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Toronto Raptors forward Scottie Barnes (4) reacts after a win against the Boston Celtics at Scotiabank Arena.
John E. Sokolowski-Imagn Images

Barnes is averaging 19.8 points, 8.1 rebounds and 6.6 assists for the Raptors this season. While it's obvious that the Raptors are rebuilding, they are confident in the asset that they have in Barnes. He fits the mold of a franchise player that can revert the team to a championship contender. The Raptors recently added more young depth in frontcourt to help out Barnes.

That said, with the trade deadline quickly approaching, it's possible that the Raptors' Big 3 of Barnes, Immanuel Quickley and RJ Barrett could be major targets from a playoff suitor in the 2024-25 season. While Toronto could hang tight, nothing can ever be ruled out when referring to a team that's looking to the future.

Ahead of Toronto's matchup with the Atlanta Hawks on Thursday night, Barnes looks to keep his stretch of solid performances going.