Sunday night brought a mix of emotions for Raptors fans. On one hand, there was reason to celebrate - Scottie Barnes officially earned his first NBA All-Star nod as a reserve, a major milestone for the 24-year-old who’s grown into the face of the franchise. On the other hand, there was a notable omission: Brandon Ingram, who’s been nothing short of outstanding this season, didn’t make the final All-Star cut.
Barnes, despite the honor, didn’t seem to be in full celebration mode. He was quick to voice his disappointment that Ingram didn’t join him on the All-Star roster.
Head coach Darko Rajakovic echoed that sentiment, publicly backing his midrange maestro and making it clear how much Ingram means to this team. While All-Star selections are a big deal, the Raptors had another major moment of recognition waiting in the wings - one that put both Barnes and Ingram front and center.
Scottie Barnes and Brandon Ingram Land the Cover of SLAM 260
Toronto’s dynamic duo is set to appear on one of the featured covers of SLAM Magazine Issue 260, joining a stacked lineup that includes Tyrese Maxey and VJ Edgecombe from the Sixers, Pistons All-Star Jalen Duren, and UConn standout Sarah Strong. The Raptors' cover comes with a bold tagline: “COLD FRONT”, and a caption that hits home - *“In the dead of winter, Toronto is alive again.
Scottie Barnes and Brandon Ingram are leading the Raptors’ resurgence.” *
It’s a fitting headline for a team that’s quietly climbed its way back into the Eastern Conference mix. After a few seasons of hovering in the middle of the pack, the Raptors are back in the top five in the East and looking more and more like a legitimate playoff threat. That resurgence has been fueled by the growth of Barnes and the seamless integration of Ingram, who’s found his rhythm in Toronto and elevated the team’s offensive ceiling.
This isn’t just a cool photo op. For Barnes and Ingram, it’s a statement - a recognition of their growing influence, not just on the court, but in the broader basketball culture.
SLAM has always been more than a basketball magazine. It’s where hoops meets fashion, music, sneakers, and street culture.
And now, the Raptors’ stars are right in the middle of that spotlight.
The Legacy and the Moment
For longtime Raptors fans, this moment carries echoes of the past. Back in 2019, after the franchise's first-ever NBA title, the remaining core from that championship team landed on the cover of SLAM 227 under the headline “AFTER OURS.” That cover became a time capsule of sorts - a snapshot of a golden era in Raptors history.
Now, in 2026, Barnes and Ingram are carving out a new chapter. They’re not just filling the shoes of the previous generation - they’re creating their own legacy. And while Barnes has been the centerpiece of this rebuild, Ingram’s arrival has given Toronto a second star to lean on, someone who complements Barnes’ all-around game with smooth scoring and veteran poise.
It’s worth noting that while Barnes is getting his due as an All-Star, Ingram’s omission doesn’t erase the impact he’s had this season. He’s been a consistent force, especially in the midrange, and his presence has helped unlock a more versatile Raptors offense. The All-Star snub might sting, but the SLAM cover is a reminder that league-wide respect is still coming his way.
Inside the Raptors' Locker Room
The vibe inside the Raptors facility? Pure pride.
Coach Rajakovic made sure the moment didn’t go unnoticed - handing out SLAM cover t-shirts to everyone in the gym. It’s a small gesture, but one that speaks volumes about the culture being built in Toronto.
This isn’t just about individual accolades. It’s about team identity, shared success, and recognizing how far they’ve come.
For Barnes and Ingram, this cover isn’t just a celebration - it’s a signal. Toronto’s back in the conversation.
And with their two stars leading the charge, this team is more than just a feel-good story. They’re a problem for the rest of the East - and they’re just getting started.