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New York Knicks: RJ Barrett’s 5 most important games so far

By Maxwell Ogden

WASHINGTON, DC - MARCH 10: RJ Barrett #9 of the New York Knicks warms up before playing against the Washington Wizards at Capital One Arena on March 10, 2020 in Washington, DC. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Patrick Smith/Getty Images)
WASHINGTON, DC - MARCH 10: RJ Barrett #9 of the New York Knicks warms up before playing against the Washington Wizards at Capital One Arena on March 10, 2020 in Washington, DC. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Patrick Smith/Getty Images) /
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CHICAGO, ILLINOIS – NOVEMBER 12: RJ Barrett #9 of the New York Knicks is defended by Zach LaVine #8 of the Chicago Bulls during the first half of a game at United Center on November 12, 2019 in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Stacy Revere/Getty Images)
CHICAGO, ILLINOIS – NOVEMBER 12: RJ Barrett #9 of the New York Knicks is defended by Zach LaVine #8 of the Chicago Bulls during the first half of a game at United Center on November 12, 2019 in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Stacy Revere/Getty Images) /

5. The First Win

Date: Oct. 28, 2019
Opponent: Chicago Bulls
Result: 105-98, W

The New York Knicks began the 2019-20 season at 4-20, which made every victory achieved under David Fizdale all the more significant. It was the first win of the year that stood out as RJ Barrett’s first major performance, however, as he took over in multiple senses of the phrase.

Bobby Portis led the Knicks with 28 points off the bench, but it was Barrett who paced the team from start to finish with a showing that displayed his star potential.

Barrett finished the encounter with the Knicks’ bitter rival with 19 points, 15 rebounds, five assists, and a block in 40 minutes of play. It wasn’t his best shooting performance, as he went just 5-of-11 from the free throw line, but the significance of this memorable outing was undeniable.

Barrett’s energy was infectious, as he found himself in the right place at the right time at every turn—a truth that’s reflected by his +/- of +5.

The Knicks actually trailed 98-90 with just over three minutes remaining, which is exactly when Barrett began to take over. He had the assist on a key Wayne Ellington layup, buried a free throw to cut the deficit to three, and then grabbed his own rebound to score once more and make it 98-97.

Barrett also made a pair of clutch free throws with 16.7 seconds remaining, thus helping the Knicks secure their first win of the season.

More importantly: He came through for his team down the stretch during the first win of his NBA career.

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