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USA Today via Reuters

USA Today via Reuters

The Lakers finally got back to winning ways in their pursuit to make a final push. The purple and gold took their revenge on the Raptors and defeated them in an overtime thriller. However, Scottie Barnes impressed the entire NBA world with his monster performance. After the game, LeBron James revealed he knew Barnes would be special. But he may have dragged on his point a little too far.

LeBron has always had an eye for talent. Notably, his best example comes with someone like Stephen Curry. Since Curry’s college days, the King would go and watch several of his games. And the Baby-Faced Assassin has made his mark in the NBA as the three-point king. Hence, LeBron knows how to spot potential.

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Likewise, he saw something in Barnes as well. However, NBA fans went after the Akron Hammer for his emphasis.

LeBron James caught lying?

Coming off his head-to-head battle with Barnes, LeBron had all the praise for Barnes. Scottie went off for 31 points, 17 rebounds, and 6 assists against James in their overtime clash. While he surprised many fans, it seems LeBron was left unphased. He said he knew Barnes was special, but fans caught him for stretching it too far.

He said, “I saw Scottie Barnes for the first time in the seventh grade, and I told one of my good friends he was gonna be special.”

While there is no evidence of James’ comments, Barnes is surely something special. Coming in as a top pick, the pressure is always on. However, Barnes has embraced it and made a resounding case for himself. Losing Leonard, the Raptors gained a big draw with Barnes as he dominates both ends of the floor.

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Barnes is putting up solid numbers for his rookie year. Averaging 15.5 points, 7.7 rebounds, and 3.4 assists, he is already a big piece for Toronto. Moreover, his size and athleticism make him a huge asset on the defensive end. His defensive rating of 108 only comes as further proof. Likewise, he is a hot choice to win ROTY as he keeps amazing the NBA world.

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With Barnes playing at an elite level against guys like LeBron James, do you think he will be a big star in the future? Let us know in the comments below.