TORONTO – If superstar-level prestige is the goal, eventually you’ll want that award section of your Wikipedia page or Basketball Reference profile to start filling up.

It’s been a while since Scottie Barnes added something to his resume, a new title, a new award.

Of course, his Rookie of the Year win in 2022 remains the crowning achievement, followed closely by his first and only All-Star selection in 2024. He was also named the player of the week for the first time in late January 2025.

But amid a sterling defensive season, Barnes is finally being recognized for his efforts on the end he built his reputation on.

For the first time in his young career, Barnes was named the Eastern Conference Defensive Player of the Month for October and November. And while it’s a relatively new award,

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