Washington Wizards: How did Rui Hachmiura’s first NBA game compare to the other rookies?
By Max Rayman
RJ Barret
21 points. Five rebounds. Two assists. Two steals. 9-13 fg, 1-3 3pt
RJ Barret had a solid first game after being drafted number three overall by the New York Knicks. Barret, who played under the shadow of Zion Williamson at Duke, went off with 21 points on nine of 13 shooting. He also added five rebounds, two assists, and two steals. Barret excelled at finishing at the rim and showcased excellent defense. He proved he can score at all levels, be it from behind the arc, mid-range, or up close.
In one game, Barret proved he can shine as the face of a franchise. No longer behind Zion, Barret flourished as the guy. While Barrett doesn’t have any superstars on his team, he has veterans that have been around enough that can teach him the ropes.
Knicks fans might no be watching the same Duke prospect in Madison Square Garden that they thought they would be, but Barret’s debut shows they still might have found a stud in the draft after all.