RJ Barrett’s Surprising Fall in 2019 Redraft
The 2019 NBA Draft was initially celebrated for its high-profile talents, showcasing what many fans and analysts saw as a premier 1-2 punch at its zenith. Fast forward a few years, and that optimism has given way to a sobering reality. What started as a promising class has transformed into a collection of “What If?” scenarios that have haunted the league in recent seasons.
The Struggles of the 2019 Class
Unlike the 2010 draft, which featured a roster of stars like Paul George, John Wall, and DeMarcus Cousins—each plagued by injuries—the core of the 2019 draft class has faced an altogether different set of challenges. Zion Williamson and Ja Morant have both displayed their extraordinary skills on the court, but they have been unable to escape their off-court hurdles.
Williamson’s battle with weight and focus has hindered the New Orleans Pelicans’ aspirations for a resurgence. Meanwhile, Morant’s recurring health issues have been compounded by suspensions and a growing ambivalence toward remaining with the Memphis Grizzlies. These challenges have overshadowed their potential and raised questions about their future.
RJ Barrett’s Journey with the Knicks
In the midst of this turmoil, RJ Barrett—Williamson’s former Duke teammate—was selected by the New York Knicks with the third overall pick. Barrett’s tenure with the Knicks was marked by relative stability. He played in a minimum of 70 games during each of his four seasons, averaging over 18 points per game while contributing to multiple playoff appearances. His impact seemed to solidify his status as a foundational player for the franchise.
However, Barrett’s narrative took a significant turn midway through the 2023-24 season when he was traded to the Toronto Raptors in exchange for OG Anunoby. This move abruptly halted his story in New York, setting the stage for a reevaluation of his place in the 2019 draft class.
A Surprising Redraft Outcome
As the dust settled on Barrett’s time with the Knicks, his situation drew scrutiny in a recent redraft analysis by Grant Hughes. In a surprising twist, Barrett was relegated to the 11th overall pick, landing with the Phoenix Suns, while Morant retained his position at No. 2. Darius Garland’s impressive development also nudged Williamson down to the Knicks’ original slot at No. 3.
This outcome left many Knicks fans grappling with disappointment. They had hoped to secure Williamson after enduring a league-leading 65 losses that season. Instead, their consolation prize—Barrett—has seen his stock fall in the eyes of analysts. Hughes noted, “RJ Barrett has had a strong enough career on paper to make his slippage a surprise. He’s the leader among 2019 selections in total points scored and has been a full-time starter since he debuted with the New York Knicks.”
Barrett’s trajectory serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of the NBA draft and the evolving narratives that shape a player’s legacy. While some of his contemporaries grapple with their own struggles, Barrett’s experience reflects both the highs and lows of professional basketball, leaving fans and analysts alike to ponder the true value of draft selections and the paths they carve out in the league.
