RJ Barrett: Hometown Hero!

No story is better than a hometown kid becoming a star in their birth city. Americans love this kind of content, which is why Rocky is one of the most iconic movies of the past century. Players who spent their developing years in the city and then, as pros, became big stars. RJ Barrett has become an example, as he is having an incredible season. He is a key to the Toronto Raptors' rebuild, where he has become the second-best player on the team. Showing himself to be a viable second or third option in a future championship team.

RJ Barrett was incredible tonight against the New York Knicks. He scored 30 points for the seventh time in his career. He led a tough fight against a rival team without his best player, Scottie Barnes. It was awesome to watch the 24-year-old take on two great defenders, OG Anunoby and Mikal Bridges. It seemed like he was more comfortable shooting off-ball threes. Along with improving his ability to drive into the rim and use screens to create open shots. Also, RJ is a great rebounder and passer. He can make the extra passes and get some quality boards. Barrett has become an all-around offensive player this year for the Raptors.

The New York era for RJ was difficult. Madison Square Garden was hoping to start the Zion Williamson or Ja Morant era. But they landed the third pick, which meant that they had to pick the lesser player. The first year was stuck in a weird limbo. The Knicks signed three forwards: Bobby Portis, Julius Randle, and Marcus Morris. David Fizdale found himself fired in the middle of the season. Then, the Knicks got new management. They decided to bring in Coach Thibs, who prefers to play established players. The team added Jalen Brunson. His lack of development led the Knicks to get former champion OG Anunoby. RJ returned home and got the chance to play his style of ball.

It seemed like media and fans alike were quick to write this young guy off. Despite only being 24 years old. Barrett hasn't even reached his prime yet, and folks wanted to call him a bust. Even go so far as to say that he isn't a starting caliber player. Now, he is making everyone eat their words. With Scottie Barnes being out, he has been able to take on the scoring load. Darko Rajaković has done an awesome job of pushing RJ. He is showing he can play at a high level. Which has left the NBA world in awe.

 The hometown kid has been incredible so far this season. Watching him gain the confidence to take over the offense this year has been a treat. He has gotten over the confidence issues and has molded himself into being a positive on the floor. His points, rebounds, and assists have improved since coming to Toronto. The freedom to control the offense is awesome. RJ developing his on-ball game with his already established off-ball game is awesome. With how young the league is, people forget how great RJ is. If he continues to develop his game, we could see the hometown kid win a championship for his city!

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