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3 reasons why RJ Barrett deserves a max extension from Knicks

By Desmond Novack

CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA - MARCH 23: RJ Barrett #9 of the New York Knicks walks off the court after defeating the Charlotte Hornets at Spectrum Center on March 23, 2022 in Charlotte, North Carolina. 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 Jacob Kupferman/Getty Images)
CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA - MARCH 23: RJ Barrett #9 of the New York Knicks walks off the court after defeating the Charlotte Hornets at Spectrum Center on March 23, 2022 in Charlotte, North Carolina. 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 Jacob Kupferman/Getty Images) /
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New York Knicks, RJ Barrett
RJ Barrett, New York Knicks. (Photo by Alex Goodlett/Getty Images) /

2. RJ Barrett’s potential

Last season, RJ Barrett averaged 20 PPG, 5.8 RPG, and 3 APG while shooting 40.8% from the field and 34.2% from three. While these may not be the most eye-popping numbers, this is due to how inconsistent Barrett was at times.

Throughout the 70 games Barrett played last season, he had moments where he looked like a superstar, scoring 30 or more points in 11 of said games. However, he also had moments where he couldn’t hit a shot. This is something that most players deal with, though, so I am not worried at all.

Not to mention, Barrett had to share the floor with Julius Randle throughout the majority of last season. As we know, that made it difficult for not only RJ but also for many other players on the team to get the ball.

Barrett has improved dramatically in each of his three seasons in the league. If he remains on this track, then there will be no doubts in anyone’s mind that Barrett will be worth the max contract he is likely going to get.

Not only does Barrett show tremendous potential as a scorer, but his potential as a playmaker and defender is what excites me the most. To start the year last season, Barrett was playing defense at a very elite level. However, once he was forced to take on a heavier offensive role, his defense fell back to being good at best.

In addition to his defense, Barrett has shown potential to be a great playmaker during his time in the league. While his assist numbers may not show it (2.9 APG in three seasons) watching him play shows his potential. It is just unfortunate that coach Tom Thibodeau does not realize this and would rather force Randle to be the primary playmaker.

I’m not saying that Barrett has the potential to be the best playmaker in the league, but it is just not talked about enough.

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