RJ Barrett has been a huge addition for the Toronto Raptors.
The 23-year-old has really embraced the opportunity of playing for his hometown team.
Barrett has averaged 20.1 points, 6.8 rebounds and 3.7 assists in 20 games for the Raptors thus far.
Barrett is coming off recording 12 points, 7 assists and 5 rebounds in a win over the Brooklyn Nets on Feb. 22. He sat out the game against the Atlanta Hawks on Feb. 23 due to injury management.
The Canadian has been consistent for Toronto. Showing off his ability to get downhill and finish at the basket. He has also done a solid job of rebounding and playmaking as well.
After the Raptors victory over the Nets, coach Darko Rajakovic gave Barrett the ultimate compliment. He said he sees some of Manu Ginóbili’s game in his via The Toronto Star:
“We had a conversation, a couple of weeks ago, I told him that I see some of that type of play in him…and the fortunate thing about that is Manu Ginóbili is his favorite player as well.”
Raptors head coach Darko Rajakovic said he sees some Manu Ginóbili in RJ Barrett:
“We had a conversation, a couple of weeks ago, I told him that I see some of that type of play in him… and the fortunate thing about that is Manu Ginóbili is his favourite player as well.” pic.twitter.com/rPUjcXpAoc
— Toronto Star Sports (@StarSports) February 23, 2024
Barrett looks to continue to be a positive force for Toronto in the final part of the season.
Barrett reacts to Ginóbili compliment
Ginóbili is a Hall of Famer and was a legend for the San Antonio Spurs. He was a guard who was able to do a little bit of everything. He made smart decisions, hit three-pointers, was able to attack the basket and was a gifted playmaker.
“Of course, it’s a big compliment, one of the greatest,” Barrett said.
If Barrett can model Ginóbili’s game and add his own uniqueness to it, he will certainly have a long and successful NBA career.
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