NBA Draft: Zion Williamson still first in 2019 Redraft

The 2018-19 Duke Blue Devils had one of the best freshman classes in recent college basketball history, with four top-10 recruits. Coming into the season RJ Barrett was viewed as the superior prospect even if Zion Williamson was the bigger star, and although that flipped during their freshman seasons it left Barrett falling no further than three.

As a rookie Barrett struggled to create efficient looks for himself, lacking the burst to gain separation. While he still has room to grow in that area he has both improved and found a more lucrative role, playing less on-the-ball and finding ways to contribute as a cutter and shooter.

Defensively Barrett has come on early as well, likely helped in his development by playing for defensive guru Tom Thibodeau. After a dysfunctional environment as a rookie he played on a disciplined New York Knicks team this past season and was a major part of their push to the fourth-seed in the Eastern Conference.

Barrett is an underrated passer who would likely see his assists increase in a better environment. He is in a tier below Morant (and two below Williamson, realistically) as he likely won’t grow into someone who can be the best player on a title team. Even so, he is a solid starter already and could certainly grow into more.