Barnes eager to learn from Raptors’ close win

Scottie Barnes was eager to get to the film session after the closest Toronto Raptors' win of the season.

TORONTO – Scottie Barnes was eager to get to the film session after the closest Toronto Raptors’ win of the season.

Barnes had 16 points, six rebounds and six assists in Toronto’s 110-108 win over the lowly Charlotte Hornets on Monday. He also had a key block with 0.2 seconds left to play, just 18.2 seconds after RJ Barrett of Mississauga, Ont., scored the game-winning layup.

“We need to know how we can get better from this and keep growing,” said Barnes at his post-game conference. “Every game is a lesson where we can grow, fix some things.

“We’ve got to hold each other accountable. Those are the times when we’re gonna hold each other accountable.”

The Raptors (9-5) fourth win in a row moved them a half-game ahead of the New York Knicks for first in the Atlantic Division. Toronto also took over third place in the Eastern Conference.

“It’s great that we’re winning games, but keep staying humble, keep staying hungry, it’s only the beginning of the season,” said Barnes. “But you know, we’re really good, we’re really talented.”

Brandon Ingram led all scorers with 27 points for the Raptors, along with six rebounds and a crucial block on Charlotte rookie Ryan Kalkbrenner’s dunk attempt with nine seconds to go.

“It’s practice for our goal in the long run, executing in tight situations, trying to figure out what’s the best shot on the floor, but also on the defensive end, having each other’s back,” said Ingram. “We know that’s going to help us when we get to the playoffs.”