RJ Barrett’s Unexpected Slide in Re-Draft Rankings
Toronto Raptors forward RJ Barrett, who was selected as the No. 3 overall pick in the 2019 NBA Draft, finds himself facing surprising scrutiny within his draft class. Despite a career that showcases significant achievements, a recent re-draft by Bleacher Report’s Grant Hughes has placed Barrett at No. 11, raising eyebrows among fans and analysts alike.
Career Performance vs. Perception
Barrett has certainly made a name for himself in the league, leading all players from the 2019 draft class in total points scored and establishing himself as a full-time starter since his debut with the New York Knicks. Averaging 18.9 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 3.3 assists per game, his statistical output rivals that of some of the most prominent names in his class.
However, Hughes highlights that raw numbers can be misleading. Barrett ranks just 21st in true shooting percentage among his draft peers, a metric that reflects shooting efficiency. This inefficiency is compounded by his minus-1.7 career Box Plus/Minus, placing him 23rd in the class. Such figures indicate that despite his scoring prowess, Barrett’s overall impact on games has not consistently translated into positive results for his team.
The Re-Draft Landscape
In the re-draft, Barrett is positioned behind ten other players, including Darius Garland, Ja Morant, Zion Williamson, and Tyler Herro. While it’s understandable for former All-Stars like Garland, Morant, and Williamson to take precedence, the inclusion of players such as Coby White, Lu Dort, and P.J. Washington ahead of Barrett sparks debate.
Many observers argue that Barrett deserves a higher ranking, especially considering his scoring leadership among the 2019 selections. His ongoing development as a playmaker, evidenced by a career-high average of 5.4 assists last season, adds depth to his game that shouldn’t be overlooked. Hughes emphasized this aspect of Barrett’s evolution, noting that the forward has been working to refine his shooting consistency while enhancing his playmaking skills.
Looking Ahead
The conversation surrounding Barrett’s ranking is a testament to the competitive nature of the NBA and the evolving criteria used to assess player value. Should he continue to improve his shooting efficiency, there’s potential for Barrett to ascend in future evaluations.
As the Raptors gear up for their third NBA Cup game against the Washington Wizards tomorrow at 7:30 p.m. ET, Barrett remains a crucial figure on the Toronto roster. His contributions to winning basketball, especially in high-pressure situations, will be key as he seeks to solidify his place among the elite of his draft class.
