RJ Barrett could emulate the career of OKC Thunder superstar
Current Ranking:
- The Ringer: 3rd
- NBA DraftNet: 3rd
- FanSided Busting Brackets: 2nd
- FanSided The Step Back: 2nd
- ESPN (Note: from paid portion of site ESPN+): 3rd
- CBS Sports: 2nd
- NBA.com: 3rd
- Sports Illustrated: 4th
- Bleacher Report: 3rd
- Basketball Insiders: 3rd
- NBC: 3rd
Where RJ will land and how it affects Thunder:
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With recent news the Knicks are considering putting together a package to target Anthony Davis it would presumably include RJ Barrett. If that bid was successful RJ and Zion would just continue their partnership from Duke into the NBA.
While that would be fun to watch perhaps the more intriguing pairing would be witnessing RJ and Jrue Holiday playing together.
And, if that package didn’t work out the Knicks (although I’m sure they’ll boo if RJ is the pick) will quickly learn to appreciate the Canadian’s talents. Plus learning under David Fizdale who has shown prowess in developing youngsters could be a match made in heaven.
And, if the Kevin Durant to Knicks rumors turn out to have legs imagine those two alongside Mitchell Robinson!
The OKC Thunder won’t have a shot at RJ at least not during the draft unless Sam Presti is looking at tearing down the existing squad which doesn’t make sense especially with two superstars expecting to win during their contract period.
If the current playoffs have taught us anything it’s great to have a superteam or All-Star starting five. The issue is every team still requires depth to play the minutes those players rest. And, if you’re unfortunate with injuries the depth becomes a greater factor.
dark. Next. 2019 NBA Mock Draft 2.0: The post Combine edition
Still, for OKC Thunder fans they will likely get to watch RJ develop in the East and can watch to see how closely he emulates the career of Paul George who in my opinion he should be earmarking as his NBA example to live up to.