1. RJ Barrett, New York Knicks
While many people will look at this offseason as an unsuccessful one for the New York Knicks because they were unable to finalize a trade for Donovan Mitchell, it was quite the opposite.
They addressed their biggest need of the last decade-plus, signing Jalen Brunson to be the team’s starting point guard. They also upgraded the frontcourt with the addition of Isaiah Hartenstein.
Not going all-in and caving to the demands of Danny Ainge should be looked at as a positive for the franchise, as older regimes would have given up the farm to land Mitchell. Now, it is time for them to fully commit to handing the team over to their young players, led by RJ Barrett.
What Barrett has accomplished in his first three seasons in the NBA has been achieved by very few people. Averaging 20 points, 5.8 rebounds and three assists per game at 21 years old is an impressive feat. Now playing alongside a competent point guard, his numbers should take another step in the right direction.
LATEST NBA NEWS: RJ Barrett & New York Knicks Updates
RJ Barrett is approaching All-Star level numbers and that kind of ascension seems inevitable. If the New York Knicks find a trade partner for Julius Randle this offseason, implementing Barrett as the clear-cut No. 1 option, his first All-Star weekend appearance could very well come this season.
New York committed to RJ Barrett this offseason, signing him to a four-year rookie extension worth up to $120 million. Now, it is time to make him the face of the franchise and see what level he can truly achieve.
