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New York Knicks: Unlocking RJ Barrett’s star potential

By Adam Kester

WASHINGTON, DC - DECEMBER 28: RJ Barrett #9 of the New York Knicks looks on after the game against the Washington Wizards at Capital One Arena on December 28, 2019 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 Will Newton/Getty Images)
WASHINGTON, DC - DECEMBER 28: RJ Barrett #9 of the New York Knicks looks on after the game against the Washington Wizards at Capital One Arena on December 28, 2019 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 Will Newton/Getty Images) /
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WASHINGTON, DC – DECEMBER 28: RJ Barrett #9 of the New York Knicks looks on after the game against the Washington Wizards at Capital One Arena on December 28, 2019 in Washington, DC. (Photo by Will Newton/Getty Images)
WASHINGTON, DC – DECEMBER 28: RJ Barrett #9 of the New York Knicks looks on after the game against the Washington Wizards at Capital One Arena on December 28, 2019 in Washington, DC. (Photo by Will Newton/Getty Images) /

The New York Knicks have high expectations for shooting guard RJ Barrett. What can the former Duke Blue Devils standout do to unlock his star potential?

New York Knicks rookie RJ Barrett came into this season with sky-high expectations. The third overall pick in the 2019 NBA Draft will forever be compared to the two players selected before him, his college teammate Zion Williamson and Memphis Grizzlies point guard Ja Morant.

Morant and Williamson are the clear frontrunners for Rookie of the Year.

While Williamson and Morant seem destined for stardom, the second tier of top-performing rookies isn’t quite as clear. Personally, my second tier would consist of, n no particular order, Coby White, Tyler Herro, De’Andre Hunter, Rui Hachimura, and Barrett.

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Barrett has had trouble finding consistency in his rookie season. Some elements of the 2019-20 Knicks—coaching change, team president change, shooting coach change, lack of talent around him—have been beyond his control.

Despite the chaos around him, Barrett has flashed greatness. He’ll have stretches of play where he looks like the best player on the court.

He’s also struggled. Shot inconsistencies and lack of elite speed can be red flags for a perimeter player, let alone one selected third overall.

Barrett has a unique maturity and a clear desire to put in the work he needs to reach greater heights. There are parts of his game that have already grown since draft day, and there are areas he must improve on to reach the next level.

The question is: How can RJ Barrett and the New York Knicks unlock his potential?

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