New York Knicks: 2019-20 NBA season preview

Storyline 2: Is RJ Barrett ready for the big time?

The New York Knicks made the tough decision to trade Kristaps Porzingis at the deadline, moving swiftly to get a deal done. They ended up trading him to the Dallas Mavericks in a move that added future assets and cleared cap space as well.

Porzingis was the face of the franchise and foundation for the rebuild. He was supposed to be the next star that helped carry the team back to prominence. Now, that role falls upon the shoulders of RJ Barrett.

Barrett was the No. 3 overall pick in the 2019 NBA Draft. Fans were hoping to land the No. 1 overall pick and the chance to select Barrett’s college teammate, Zion Williamson. However, it was Barrett that was the No. 1 overall player heading into the 2018-19 season and he possesses star potential as well.

Barrett is also the one that set records while the two played at Duke together. Barrett set the record for points scored by a freshman in Duke and ACC history, pouring in 22.6 points per game and 860 total. He was a strong rebounder for a shooting guard, averaging 7.6 per game and a solid playmaker as well, averaging 4.3 assists per game.

The former Blue Devil has high expectations coming to the Big Apple. The fans and organization are expecting great things from him. If Summer League was any indication, he may have some rough patches in the beginning. However, he showed how diverse his game is and now he can impact things in different ways.

Maple Mamba will have the bright lights of Madison Square Garden shining on him right out of the gate. He wasn’t afraid of the moment in college and is a reason to watch the Knicks throughout the season.