TORONTO — Scottie Barnes was named the NBA’s Eastern Conference defensive player of the month for October-November on Tuesday.
Barnes is the first Toronto Raptor to earn the award since it was created ahead of the 2024-25 season. He helped lead Toronto to a 14-7 start while anchoring a group that sits near the top of several defensive categories.
Head coach Darko Rajakovic congratulated Barnes on the achievement hours before the Raptors hosted the Portland Trail Blazers at Scotiabank Arena.
“I think a big part of that is the work that he’s putting in, the dedication, studying the players, getting to know the league,” said Rajakovic. “It’s Year 5 for him. He’s continuing to improve in every single aspect.
“But it’s also a testament to his teammates as well. You cannot do anything without your supporting cast, without support from their teammates. I’m really happy for him, and in every aspect, there is more for him that’s coming.”
The six-foot-eight Barnes is averaging 19.9 points, eight rebounds and five assists through 21 games. His 64 combined steals and blocks were tied for the most in the NBA over the stretch.
Barnes also sealed a 110-108 win over the Charlotte Hornets with a block at the buzzer on Nov. 17.
Rajakovic said he was especially impressed with Barnes’s awareness when defending off the ball.
“I think that rim protection, his deflections playing off the ball, and then, just roaming on defence, recognizing situations, he’s doing a really good job there,” said Rajakovic.
Oklahoma City’s Cason Wallace earned the Western Conference award.
Rajakovic was nominated for Eastern Conference coach of the month as Toronto reeled off a nine-game win streak to storm up the standings. Detroit Pistons bench boss J.B. Bickerstaff earned the award instead and Rajakovic said he was unmoved to be considered for the honour.
“No feelings at all,” said Rajakovic. “This is about players on my team, really proud of my team, really proud of our guys. We got a lot of more work to do, a lot of in front of us.
“We were just focusing to get one per cent better every day.”
This report by The Canadian Press was first published Dec. 2, 2025.
John Chidley-Hill, The Canadian Press
