Knicks fans are divided over RJ Barrett.
Still, Barrett was phenomenal during the Knicks’ win over Cleveland on Friday night. And you can argue that New York doesn’t win the game without Barrett’s strong first 15 minutes.
Barrett started the game 5-for-8 with 12 points early in the second quarter. He had five rebounds and one steal in that span. The Knicks’ other starters were a combined 2-of-17 (1-of-8 from beyond the arc). New York led Cleveland by two when Barrett made a driving layup three minutes into the second quarter. Without Barrett, those first 15 minutes would have been very different.
So, in a way, Barrett saved the game on a must-attend night for NYC. He finished with 19 points, eight rebounds (two offensive), and three assists. And he calmed a Knick fan base that seemed concerned about the No. 1 pick. 3 in the 2019 NBA Draft.