In response to recent criticism of Toronto Raptors second-year forward Scottie Barnes, former Washington Wizards player Kyle Kuzma spoke out about the NBA’s lack of patience.

Kuzma responded by saying the NBA has “a real problem with patience” after Raptors insider Doug Smith stated that Barnes “to become an NBA elite star, needs to put in much more effort over the summer. “.

Barnes had a standout 2021–22 season, winning Rookie of the Year honors after averaging 15–3 points, 7–5 rebounds, 3–5 assists, and 1–1 steal in 74 games while shooting 49–2 percent from the field and 30–1 percent from beyond the arc. Barnes was selected fourth overall in the 2021 NBA Draft.

The 21-year-old has regressed this year, with a 14-18 record. The Raptors are currently sitting in 10th place in the Eastern Conference. While shooting 44 percent from the field and 31 percent from beyond the arc in 29 games, he is averaging 14 points, six rebounds, and four assists per contest.

It was anticipated that the 6’9″ forward would advance in his second season, but since he hasn’t done so thus far, it has led to unwarranted criticism of a player who is only beginning what should be a long career.