4 things Knicks' RJ Barrett must do to get his game back on track

4 things Knicks’ RJ Barrett must do to get his game back on track

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - NOVEMBER 11: RJ Barrett #9 of the New York Knicks looks on during a break in the action during the third quarter of the game against the Detroit Pistons at Madison Square Garden on November 11, 2022 in New York City. 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 Dustin Satloff/Getty Images) /

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RJ Barrett, New York Knicks. (Photo by Dustin Satloff/Getty Images) /

It starts with defense

RJ Barrett has been playing this game ever since he was a kid. So, I know he knows this, but defense turns into offense. It’s always good to go back to the basics. Barrett should focus on the defensive end when he steps on the floor. It’s clear that besides Julius Randle and Jalen Brunson, New York is going to look for Barrett to score as well.

Whether he is the leading scorer of the night or scores the least out of the three of them, the front office is looking for him to put the ball in the hoop. That hasn’t really been the case this year. The 120 million dollar man has barely managed to shoot 40% from the field and an even worse 27% from three-point range. It feels like RJ is depending on himself to score by continuing to launch threes rather than get to the basket.

I’m sure Tom Thibodeau wants him to score as well, but being the defensive-minded guru he is, I bet he wouldn’t mind if RJ put as much passion into his defensive production as he does his offensive production. When you are in an offensive slump like he is, it’s always best to rely on other aspects of the game. Focusing on defense and playing the passing lanes can spark a fire in Barrett’s offensive production.

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