When the Knicks signed Julius Randle to a lucrative four-year contract extension earlier this month, it ensured that Randle will be one of the team’s building blocks for years to come.
But Randle isn’t alone in being a pillar of what the Knicks hope to build. So too is RJ Barrett.
As Barrett heads into his third season as a Knick, the former No. 3 overall pick has shown steady improvement in each of his first two seasons, improving his offensive numbers across the board.
With season averages of 17.6 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 3.0 assists on 40.1 percent three-point shooting, Barrett is becoming the exact type of player the Knicks envisioned when they selected him in 2019, and according to Randle, he’s only going to get better.
“RJ’s going to be a really good player. What is he, 21? I don’t know how old he is. He’s young as hell,” Randle said while speaking exclusively with SNY NBA Insider Ian Begley. "He’s a really good player, and I can relate as far as what he’s done, and what I’ve seen from him so far in this offseason is he just keeps improving. That’s really what it’s about.”
Since the very first moment he arrived in New York, Barrett has shown a maturity well beyond his years, even with such high expectations in a huge market like the Big Apple. He’s started 127 of 128 regular season games he’s been available to play, and Randle has seen the youngster’s dedication shine through.
“You can tell the guys who really love the game and really dedicate themselves to their craft and he’s one of them. He’s going to keep improving," he said. "I think he’s going to have another big year and make a jump. And I’m excited, not only for him as an individual but for what he’s going to bring to our team. Because at the end of the day, that’s what it’s about. Our team success. And he’s going to look great because of that.”
