The New York Knicks traded RJ Barrett to the Toronto Raptors on Dec. 30 in return for OG Anunoby, Treasured Achiuwa and Malachi Flynn.
Immanuel Quickley additionally headed north of the border as a part of the deal. Barrett had been with the Knicks since being drafted with the third general decide in 2019. His tenure was typically tumultuous as he juggled being a younger and budding star on a workforce with aspirations of quickly enhancing to change into a playoff risk.
Not too long ago, Barrett spoke with Marc J. Spears of Andscape, the place he shared his ideas on his tenure with the Knicks.
“I helped construct one thing in New York,” Barrett stated. “After I got here there we weren’t good. I left it lots higher than when it began. Positively bittersweet, however I’m completely satisfied for these guys over there. They’re completely satisfied concerning the commerce they made and I want nothing however the very best for them…I grew up as a participant and an individual over there in New York. These 4½ years, I’ll always remember.”
Buying and selling Barrett was a needed evil for the Knicks. After nurturing his expertise for 4 and a half years, the teaching employees will probably be nicely conscious of the participant he can probably change into. Nonetheless, the addition of Jalen Brunson and constant All-Star performances from Julius Randle has moved up the Knicks’ timeline. They’re able to preserve enhancing and including confirmed veteran expertise. Anunoby presents a direct improve over the place Barrett is in his growth proper now.
Nonetheless, buying and selling Barrett wasn’t a foul factor. He’s enjoying in his hometown, surrounded by family and friends. He’s on a franchise that’s getting youthful and searching so as to add high-potential gamers which have already confirmed themselves within the league. Successfully, he’s the place the Knicks would have been had they not developed so shortly. Toronto is an opportune touchdown spot for the 23-year-old. Being with Quickley, who has been spectacular since getting into the NBA, may even present some continuity for Barrett and assist him settle into his position on the court docket.
New York did enhance whereas Barrett was a part of the workforce. And sure, he was a part of its ascension to one of many higher rosters within the East. Now, the fifth-year ahead has the chance to assist one other franchise develop right into a authentic risk, and this time, it is a franchise that is near his coronary heart. Everyone received on this commerce, particularly Barrett.
