NY Knicks: How the team can land Zion Williamson
By Max LoSardo
NY Knicks: Zion Williamson & RJ Barrett’s brotherhood
One of the most important and obvious allures of Zion Williamson signing with the Knicks is reuniting with former Duke co-star RJ Barrett. The two young stars are fulfilling all their potential, as Zion is putting up ungodly numbers in New Orleans, averaging 26.4 points on 62% shooting. Barrett has taken a leap, averaging 20.2 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 3.7 assists in his last 13 games while finding himself in the midst of a playoff run. The two were dynamite together at Duke and their games continue to evolve: Zion has become more of a ball-handler, and RJ has improved his shooting and versatility on defense. They would have no trouble existing on the same team. The two remain close friends and have respect for each other’s game.
Former Duke Assistant Chris Carrawell said “They genuinely want each other to do well. They’re each other’s biggest fans. I hope it stays that way for life.
Barrett himself said about their relationship: “We bring the best out of each other.”
Duke coach Mike Krzyzewski said, “The two of them have become brothers.”
ESPN’s David Hale describes the scene after a 77-76 Duke win over UCF:
"That is what has made Duke’s season special. It’s not just the Zion Show. It’s not just a pair of one-and-dones biding their time. The friendship has pushed them to become better all-around players. They’re better together. The difference in Duke’s 77-76 win over UCF was a Williamson drive to the basket that ended with a bucket and a foul. He missed the free throw to tie the score, but Barrett secured the rebound and made a putback jumper to give Duke the lead. It was a fitting finish. One star feeding off the other. And when it was over, Williamson grabbed Barrett in an embrace. “We’re still standing,” Williamson told his teammate. Barrett grinned, a rare burst of emotion. “Two brothers,” Williamson said."
Crazier things have happened.
Anyways, the Knicks take on The Pistons Saturday night, let’s focus on that for now.
Next. The 4 best RJ Barrett games of the season. dark