Skills
There isn’t much not to like about R.J. Barrett’s game. His ball handling and versatile offense are just the tipping point of what makes him special. Many point to his left hand usage but the fact is he’s right handed so expect that aspect of his game to open up once he reaches the pros.
He’ll turn 19 this week which is another reason to step back and marvel at how developed his skill set already is and how high his ceiling is.
This season at Duke when Zion Williamson was out injured Mike Krzyzewski often put the ball in RJ’s hands to run the offense instead of his point guards. This spoke to how diverse Barret’s game is and just how much faith Coach K had in then (then) 18 year old.
In fact, as the youngster transitions to the pros, it isn’t far fetched to imagine RJ will soon be a perennial All-Star. In the next segment, there is a current OKC Thunder superstar who I can envision Barrett resembling.
And while it’s impossible to deny Williamson or Morant as the consensus first and second selections Barrett will be a player fans will be impressed by as he matures and rounds out his game. His father is Rowan Barrett who also played basketball overseas and is most prominently known for his tenure with the Canadian National team playing alongside good friend Steve Nash (who is RJ’s godfather).
Pappa is now the Executive Vice President and Assistant General Manager of Canada Basketball, so it’s safe to say fans will get to see plenty more of his son with the ever improving Canadian talent expected to compete on the National stage.