Ever since Scottie Barnes was drafted fourth overall by the Toronto Raptors in the 2021 NBA Draft, his name has been tied with Orlando Magic rookie Jalen Suggs. Fans have been hyping up a potential rivalry between the two players, since their draft positions were so close (and Suggs was projected to be the fourth pick, not Barnes, which shocked many people).

However, in a recent interview, it seems like the Raptors rookie has nothing but high praise for Suggs. Barnes said this about the Magic rookie ahead of their first matchup against each other: (via CBS Sports)

“As a basketball player, he's [Suggs] really talented. He can shoot the ball, drive. He gets to the basket, is really quick, plays really hard and plays his heart out every time he's on the floor. I would say, as a friend, he's a loving person, he has an open heart. He's a good person that you can be able to talk to. I could call him anytime and he'll be able to talk to me and just show me a bunch of love.”

Barnes has a lot of respect for Suggs, and it's easy to see where it comes from. While the two didn't play with each other in college, they were teammates for the US Men's Under-19 team. There, it seems like the two forged a connection that transcended basketball, as they are now great friends. The Raptors-Magic tilt will be the first time Barnes and Suggs will face each other in the NBA, and Barnes is already looking forward to it.

The Raptors rookie, though, couldn't care less about fans trying to drum up some drama between him and Suggs.

“Social media is going to do its thing. I don't think it matters to really either of us. We're both just happy for each other. We just wish each other the best of luck.”

Their Friday matchup will be the first of many battles between the two good friends. It's an exciting time to be a Raptors and Magic fan today, with their two rookies looking to lead the way.