We're still getting fallout from Toronto Raptors coach Darko Rajakovic's epic rant following the team's 132-131 loss to the Los Angeles Lakers on Tuesday night.
Stephen A. Smith has now given his thoughts on ESPN's First Take, taking issue with Rajakovic calling Scottie Barnes a future "face of the league." Rajakovic said it in reference to the 23 free throws the Lakers got in the fourth quarter, compared to just 2 for the Raptors.
"Let's pump the brakes on that. Scottie Barnes is a damn good player, he's only 22 years of age. He's already averaging nearly 21-9-6," Smith said.
"The kid is a really good talent, he's got a bright future. But face of the league? Somebody needs to remind him of who Anthony Edwards is, along with various others who are playing in this league right now. Some young studs and superstars that are coming up. So I wouldn't go that far."
Raptors teammate Chris Boucher was quick to stick up for Barnes and coach Darko, saying Smith was completely side stepping the free throw issue in the first place.
"Completely ignored the free throws situation though right ? Gotta talk about a coaching supporting a star in this league smh #MoveOnThrough," Boucher said on X.
Another member of the Raptors family who's got Rajakovic's back is Drake, who called the Raps coach "a real one."
