3 New York Knicks that Must Step Up in the Absence of Julius Randle

New York Knicks: Player #3 —RJ Barrett

While not at the same level as Randle, the 21-year old has also seen his fair share of struggles this season. Barrett’s averaging just 14.6 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 2.1 assists per game on 40-34-72 shooting splits.

He’s also dealt with his own period inside the NBA’s health and safety protocols, and he’s still looking for an offensive rhythm since returning.

While the offseason additions of Kemba Walker and Evan Fournier will be there to help him, Barrett is still the Knicks’ second-leading scorer and he’ll be the top option with Randle out. Perhaps the larger scoring and playmaking role will allow him to shoot his way out of his slump and look like the rising star of last season.

In the 2020-21 year, Barrett played in just one game without Randle. He recorded 21 points, 7 rebounds, and 7 assists as the team grinded out a win against a shorthanded Milwaukee Bucks squad.

It’s worth noting that it seems like he’s already begun to regain his scoring spark. He racked up 8 points in the 4th quarter alone to secure a win against the Timberwolves, then recorded 15 points and 7 rebounds in New York’s recent win against the Pistons.

Barrett is known to be a streaky shooter, but he’s deadly when he starts heating up. He’s already had a 5-game stretch this year where he averaged 25.0 points on 52% shooting.

If the Knicks can get the attacking, sweet-shooting version of Barrett then they’ll be able to weather the storm with Randle out while also putting themselves in a better position for both the present and future.