One of the biggest moves the Toronto Raptors made this season was trading O.G. Anunoby, Precious Achiuwa and Malachi Flynn to the New York Knicks in exchange for Immanuel Quickley, RJ Barrett and a 2024 second-round pick (via Detroit).
Toronto got back two young core pieces to pair alongside Scottie Barnes.
Since arriving in Toronto, Barrett has been exponential for the Raptors. He immediately thrived in his new role and was able to expand his game.
Barrett was asked how he has been able to take his game to another level with the Raptors via TSN’s Josh Lewenberg:
“I just think I’m a good fit here. The way I play, the way I’ve always played works really well with Darko’s system… I like to run, I like to play, I like to be free. That’s me.”
In 32 games with the Toronto, Barrett averaged 21.8 points, 6.4 rebounds and 4.1 assists. He led the team in scoring during that span. He was very consistent and efficient as well, shooting it 55.3 percent from the field and 39.2 percent from deep.
The 23-year-old also mentioned that his focus this summer is going to be three-point shooting and defense per Lewenberg:
“Make sure I’m better there. Especially because everybody here has been watching O.G. for a lot of years and I’m not that. He’s one of the best defenders I’ve ever seen in my life. Just trying to work on that to get better.”
Barrett is going to be one of the Raptors main pillars that the team builds around going forward along with Barnes.
He talked about his relationship with Barnes via Lewenberg:
“I played against Scottie when I was younger…but seeing it up close every day, it’s amazing what he does. He does everything. I think what fans can’t really see is his personality, how good of a teammate he is, how much he cares about basketball and winning.”
RJ Barrett reflects on season with Raptors
Barrett reflected on his season with the Raptors when Toronto played their second last game of the regular season on April 12 against the Miami Heat.
Barrett is eager to come back better than ever with the Raptors next season.
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