RJ Barrett And Expectations

This article about former Duke star RJ Barrett talks about limiting expectations, basically. We’re not sure that’s necessary, at least not as the writer is thinking of it.

If he doesn't shoot very well but gets you 10 rebounds and 5-8 assists on any given night, plus a hard-ass attitude that you can build around, isn’t that pretty good for a rookie? Any rookie?

We think the concern over Barrett’s shooting is a bit much. Last year he and Zion Williamson were Duke’s primary threats so defenses focused on him. And you really can’t get much out of summer league play from rookies. It’s so erratic and it’s a very busy time.

Still, we hope fans will appreciate what Barrett brings. He’s really something to watch. We expect he’ll be New York’s most complete player on Day One.