The Toronto Raptors remain focused on their championship aspirations despite the return of star forward Kawhi Leonard, according to All-Star Scottie Barnes. Speaking at a team media session on Monday, Barnes emphasized that internal expectations have stayed consistent throughout his five seasons with the franchise.

“Every meeting that we’ve had, starting off with [former team president Masai Ujiri] when he was here was win-win-win,” Barnes said. “I think that’s always going to be our expectation to win, but our goal is to win a championship.”

Barnes delivered strong numbers last season, averaging 18.1 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 5.9 assists per game, while appearing in all but two contests. He established career highs in blocks (1.5) and steals (1.4), anchoring the Raptors’ defense, which ranked fifth in the NBA. The addition of Leonard—who has earned two Defensive Player of the Year awards and seven All-Defensive First Team selections—is expected to bolster an already robust defensive unit as Toronto aims to move beyond first-round playoff exits.

“We’ve got to get over that hump in the playoffs, for sure,” Barnes said. “I think with our addition that we’ve made, it’s definitely going to help us get over our hump. I think it’s step by step, and it’s a process, but I think we’re heading toward that right direction.”

Raptors head coach Darko Rajakovic added a new personal goal for Barnes this season, projecting him to earn a spot on the NBA’s All-Defensive First Team. Barnes was named to the second team in the 2025-26 season, a recognition Rajakovic described as insufficient given his defensive impact.

“Last year he ended up being in the second team, and I think that was not fair. He deserved to be on the all-defensive first team,” Rajakovic said.

The 2025-26 All-Defensive First Team consisted of San Antonio center Victor Wembanyama, Oklahoma City forward Chet Holmgren, Detroit guard Ausar Thompson, Minnesota center Rudy Gobert, and Boston guard Derrick White. Barnes was joined on the second team by New York forward OG Anunoby, Oklahoma City guard Cason Wallace, Miami center Bam Adebayo, and Atlanta guard Dyson Daniels.

Barnes voiced strong confidence in his defensive abilities. “I know I’m one of the best defensive players in the world, you know? I do what I do, and I make an impact on that floor every single night,” he said. After a pause, he added, “It just felt kind of disrespectful that I didn’t make it, and I know for sure I’ll be on there this year. Make that statement.”

Barnes also reflected on his postseason performance, particularly during the Raptors’ first-round loss to the Cleveland Cavaliers, where he defended high-caliber players such as future Hall of Famer James Harden. He acknowledged areas for growth, especially offensively.

“I think I still had a lot more that I could have done,” Barnes said. “Just trying to work on my offensive game in those ISO situations and late-game situations where you know I feel I can take that next level. Of course, I can get downhill and try to get to my spots and do those things, but just trying to figure out moves that I can really go to, and being more of a threat, having that aggressive mindset every time I come down the court.”

As the Raptors prepare for the upcoming season, Barnes and the team seek steady progress to reach their ultimate goal of winning an NBA title.