There is no question that New York Knicks‘ third overall pick from the 2019 NBA draft, RJ Barrett, will need time to develop and refine his skill set as a professional basketball player. Barrett enters the NBA is one of the most highly touted college prospects, coming out of Duke. He took a second fiddle role to Zion Williamson who took over collegiate basketball by storm, but RJ still has the capabilities to develop into a top-notch player at the next level.
Notes from the first training practice for the New York Knicks:
During the Knicks’ first practice, Barrett was asked about the physicality of the NBA and how difficult it will be to adapt.
“We got the vets here — big, strong guys, definitely a different level of physicality,’’ Barrett said Tuesday, via the NY Post. “I’m going to get used to it. I’ve got a good body.’’
Facing off against veterans like Julius Randle and Marcus Morris in practice will undoubtedly help Barrett not only grow as a player but as a teammate. The offensive side of the ball comes naturally to Barrett but stopping players on the defensive front will be a challenge, as it is for those rookies.
“Really right now I’m working my tail off on the defensive end,’’ Barrett said. “I’m just trying to get better there. Coach always wants a defensive guy on the court, you know? So if I could do that starting out. … It’s funny. If you’re smart on how you do things and keep your movements precise, that will even give you an advantage or help you keep up with a stronger guy.’’
However, that doesn’t mean there aren’t categories that he needs to work on in regards to his offense. Barrett’s three-point shooting was well below average at Duke (30.8%). During the summer league, he shot just 23% from behind the arc — considering the additional length at the professional level. Adjusting to the difference in court size and player quality in the NBA is undoubtedly a hurdle Barrett will need to leap over, but he has the support and athleticism to do so.