1. This Is RJ Barrett’s Team
One of the goals of the New York Knicks during the stretch run of the season should be to see what the young guys can do. With 5.5 games to make up in the standings, a playoff run is improbable, so the team should prioritize development.
You never know what will happen, as the young players could build some momentum. The group of Miles McBride, Immanuel Quickley, RJ Barrett, and Cam Reddish destroyed the Clippers during their 11+ minutes on the floor together, keying a victory.
One thing that has become apparent in recent weeks as well is that this is Barrett’s team. The ball has been put in his hands more recently and the results have been excellent. He has scored 20+ points in five consecutive games, including a career-high 46 against the Miami Heat on February 25th.
Barrett has increased his points per game average again this season and is knocking on the door of being a 20-point per game scorer. If he can improve his free throw shooting and shot selection, he will surpass that plateau with ease during the 2022-23 season.
LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Why Some Inside Knicks Hold “Concern” About Julius Randle
Barrett’s ascension is as much of a reason for the Knicks to consider trading Julius Randle as any. Randle’s long-term fit alongside Barrett is something that needs to be figured out. There is no denying that Barrett should be the focal point of the offense going forward and the roster should be built to fit around him.
Barrett has thrived playing up-tempo with the second unit as the go-to scorer and the front office could look to add more players in those molds to the roster by unloading Randle.
