NY Knicks: Why RJ Barrett should be the 2nd scoring option
RJ Barrett should still be the second option on the NY Knicks despite the increased offensive talent added to the roster.
Barrett is now in his third year in the league and is coming off of averaging 17.6 points, 6 rebounds, and 3 assists as the second option on a playoff team.
Julius Randle was obviously the first option last year, and it would be insane to say anyone else should take his spot next season.
It would also be insane to take the ball away from Randle’s left-handed, right-hand man.
NY Knicks: RJ Barrett should be the 2nd option
Barrett has become adept at being Randle’s second option. His ability to consistently hit threes and general off-ball improvement from his rookie season made his and Randle’s play styles complement each other.
The Knicks have a brand new backcourt in Kemba Walker and Evan Fournier that, unlike the Elfrid Payton/Reggie Bullock backcourt, are actually a good offensive guard duo.
Walker and Fournier are also one of the most efficient guard duos when on the court together, which could definitely see the Knicks have a top 10 scoring guard duo in the league.
This is a good thing for the Knicks. Better players mean more success, but it does make me worry about where Barrett fits in.
If Barrett can have a breakout season, then the Knicks will certainly stick with him as the second option, however, if it is a year with standard improvement, it is reasonable to see him lose touches.
Kemba Walker is only three years removed from being a first option averaging 25 points per game on the Charlotte Hornets and has not averaged less than 19 points since 2015. The last time Walker averaged fewer points than RJ Barrett, RJ was in 9th grade at St. Marcellinus Secondary School.
Fournier has also hovered around the 17 points per game range for around the last 6 years.
It is difficult to say that off the bat Barrett will get the same usage he got last year, but he should still be the second option for multiple reasons. Let’s get into what those reasons are.