RJ Barrett Is Quietly Becoming Indispensable in Toronto
RJ Barrett has been swirling in trade rumors ever since the Raptors brought him home in 2023. But while the noise around his name continues to grow, Barrett’s on-court play is telling a much different story-one that’s harder to ignore with each passing game.
He's not just fitting in. He's thriving.
Barrett, long criticized for not playing a “winning style,” has evolved into a key piece of a Raptors squad that’s outperforming expectations. And as the 2025-26 season rolls on, it’s becoming increasingly clear: those calling for Toronto to move him might be missing just how much he’s doing right.
A Trade Candidate? Maybe.
A Core Piece? Absolutely.
RJ Barrett recently landed at No. 7 on an NBA Trade Board compiled by Sam Vecenie-a list of players league insiders are watching closely as potential trade targets. It’s no surprise that teams are interested.
Barrett is a 6'6" wing who can score, create, and defend. That kind of versatility always draws attention.
But the idea that Toronto should trade him? That’s where things get murky.
On the surface, the Raptors have an offense filled with on-ball creators-Scottie Barnes, Brandon Ingram, Barrett himself. It’s easy to assume there’s some overlap.
But what’s happening on the court tells a different story. These guys are making it work, and Barrett’s willingness to adjust his game is a big reason why.
Toronto is 12-5 when Barrett plays this season. Without him?
They’re 5-8. That’s not a coincidence.
The Numbers Back It Up
Barrett’s production this year has been steady and efficient:
- 19.4 points
- 4.8 rebounds
- 3.8 assists
- 1.8 made threes per game
- Shooting splits of .506/.356/.725
He’s finishing at a high level around the rim-57.1% on drives-and knocking down catch-and-shoot threes at a 36.6% clip, including 40.9% from the corners. That’s a major development for a player whose jumper has often been the biggest question mark in his game.
But it’s not just the offense. Barrett’s defense has taken a leap, too.
He ranks in the 94th percentile as an off-ball chaser and 73rd percentile in ball screen navigation, per Basketball Index. That means he’s not just holding his own-he’s actively making life difficult for opposing wings and guards.
Embracing the Role, Elevating the Team
What’s really standing out this season is Barrett’s maturity. He’s not forcing the issue.
When a teammate has it going, he’s content to play off the ball, defend, and pick his spots. When the moment calls for him to step up, he’s answering with poise and efficiency.
That kind of buy-in is contagious-and invaluable for a team still finding its identity.
Toronto’s roster construction is built around length, skill, and versatility. With Barrett, Barnes, and Ingram all standing 6'6" or taller and capable of initiating offense, the Raptors are creating matchup headaches for opposing defenses. And Barrett, in particular, is showing he can be the glue guy and a scoring threat, depending on what the team needs on a given night.
Don’t Rush the Reset
Could Barrett be traded at some point? Sure.
No one’s untouchable in this league. But moving him now, before this core has had a full season to gel, would be premature.
Barrett is doing exactly what the Raptors need: scoring efficiently, defending with purpose, and sacrificing touches for the greater good. He’s not just surviving in Toronto’s crowded offense-he’s thriving.
And if the Raptors are serious about building something sustainable, that kind of selfless, two-way impact player is exactly the type you keep around.
So while the trade rumors may keep swirling, RJ Barrett is making a strong case-night in and night out-that his value in Toronto goes far beyond the box score.