When the New York Knicks did not land the primary decide
within the 2019 Draft, the groans could possibly be heard emanating from NYC and anyplace
else perpetually upset followers resided.
This meant that the staff wouldn’t
be getting the bulldozer Zion Williamson, who gave the impression to be a surefire star. As a result of
the Knicks have been selecting third, this additionally meant that they wouldn’t be capable to
get Ja Morant, the electrical guard who regarded just like the second coming of Allen
Iverson.
For the reason that Knicks had the third choice within the draft, they
needed to “settle” for RJ Barrett, Williamson’s Duke teammate. By the best way, right here
are their stats from their one yr in school:
Williamson:
22.6 factors, 8.9 rebounds, 2.1 assists
Barrett:
22.6 factors, 7.6 rebounds, 4.3 assists
Taking a look at these numbers, it’s arduous to imagine that Barrett
can be seen as a comfort prize, however on the time, many did. Now 5 years
later, he’s proving that perhaps he ought to’ve gone No. 1 all alongside.
Whereas Williamson is having a stable season, it could solely be a matter of time earlier than he will get injured once more. He’s been affected by foot and knee issues all through his profession, and he’s solely performed in round 40% of eligible video games since he entered the league. (It’s additionally unhealthy when a guy known for being fat himself calls out Williamson for being fat.)
Morant, however, has but to even play this season as a result of his second suspension associated to weapons. Whereas he might be again on the court docket quickly, there’s no assure that he’ll clear up his act, as many individuals have mentioned he’s not the nice and humble kid he once was.
Barrett, in the meantime, is quietly having a terrific season.
He’s averaging just below 19 factors per recreation, which is a hair under his scoring
common final yr, however he’s doing this in 4 fewer minutes an evening.
Whereas his two-point share is down, his three-point share is means up. He’s taking pictures over
38% from deep, in comparison with 31% final season. It’s additionally clear that
he has labored on his free throws, as this has climbed from 74% a yr
in the past to over 85% this season.
Time will inform if Williamson stays wholesome and Morant stays
clear, however Knicks followers must be thrilled they’ve Barrett. Whereas he might not
be a so-called “star,” there’s one thing to be mentioned for anyone who reveals up
on daily basis and places within the work.
He’s regularly talked about in commerce talks, which
simply appears to point out that the perpetually mismanaged Knicks don’t appear to comprehend the great
factor they’ve.