Toronto Raptors forward RJ Barrett. Dan Hamilton-USA TODAY Sports

RJ Barrett opens up on his tenure with the Knicks

By Adam Taylor | Last updated 1/9/24

The New York Knicks traded RJ Barrett to the Toronto Raptors on Dec. 30 in return for OG Anunoby, Precious Achiuwa and Malachi Flynn.

Immanuel Quickley also headed north of the border as part of the deal. Barrett had been with the Knicks since being drafted with the third overall pick in 2019. His tenure was often tumultuous as he juggled being a young and budding star on a team with aspirations of rapidly improving to become a playoff threat.

Recently, Barrett spoke with Marc J. Spears of Andscape, where he shared his thoughts on his tenure with the Knicks.

“I helped build something in New York,” Barrett said. “When I came there we weren’t good. I left it a lot better than when it started. Definitely bittersweet, but I’m happy for those guys over there. They are happy about the trade they made and I wish nothing but the best for them...I grew up as a player and a person over there in New York. Those 4½ years, I will never forget.”

Toronto #Raptors forward RJ Barrett is home after trade from New York #Knicks. The Toronto native wants to show other Canadian kids they can make it to the NBA. Story in @andscape. https://t.co/4VkPdbdDdr
— Marc J. Spears (@MarcJSpears) January 9, 2024

Trading Barrett was a necessary evil for the Knicks. After nurturing his talent for four and a half years, the coaching staff will be well aware of the player he can potentially become. However, the addition of Jalen Brunson and consistent All-Star performances from Julius Randle has moved up the Knicks' timeline. They're ready to keep improving and adding proven veteran talent. Anunoby offers an immediate upgrade over where Barrett is in his development right now.

However, trading Barrett wasn't a bad thing. He is playing in his hometown, surrounded by friends and family. He is on a franchise that is getting younger and looking to add high-potential players that have already proven themselves in the league. Effectively, he is where the Knicks would have been had they not developed so quickly. Toronto is an opportune landing spot for the 23-year-old. Being with Quickley, who has been impressive since entering the NBA, will also provide some continuity for Barrett and help him settle into his role on the court.

New York did improve while Barrett was part of the team. And yes, he was part of its ascension to one of the better rosters in the East. Now, the fifth-year forward has the opportunity to help another franchise grow into a legitimate threat, and this time, it's a franchise that's close to his heart. Everybody won in this trade, especially Barrett.

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