Knicks Rumors: RJ Barrett's Fit with Potential Offseason Moves a Top Priority

The New York Knicks reportedly will prioritize RJ Barrett's progression and development as free agency opens this offseason, according to SNY's Ian Begley. 

"Several people in touch with decision-makers at [Madison Square Garden] say they expect that the Knicks will take a player’s fit with [and] impact on RJ Barrett into account when considering a potential move," Begley wrote in his latest mailbag. 

The No. 3 overall pick of the 2019 NBA Draft, Barrett seems to factor into the Knicks' rebuilding plan under recently installed team president Leon Rose. The Duke guard averaged 14.3 points, 5.0 rebound and 2.6 assists during his rookie campaign while shooting 40.2 percent from the field. 

It makes sense for a club looking to get younger and primarily focus on emerging stars.

Even if Barrett doesn't pan out, the team doesn't lose anything by giving him an opportunity to play starting minutes in a season where the Knicks are expected to struggle again. 

Doing so will allow Rose, and new head coach Tom Thibodeau, to determine whether or not Barrett is a core piece the franchise can build around. The same could be said for small forward Kevin Knox, center Mitchell Robinson and guard Theo Pinson. 

Begley's report also means Barrett isn't likely on the table if the Knicks are looking to move up in November's draft. 

New York holds the No. 8 overall pick and could go a number of different directions with the pick depending on how the top of the order plays out. Considering the club needs upgrades across the roster, the emphasis remains on grabbing the best player available. 

As far as filling out the remainder of the rotation, Begley notes chatter for point guards Chris Paul and Russell Westbrook persist. Either could pair well with Barrett.

The decision to focus on Barrett's development likely eliminates the Knicks as a destination for unrestricted free agent shooting guards like Glenn Robinson III, Kent Bazemore and Courtney Lee. 

New York appears content to let Thibodeau enter the season with Barrett slotted into the starting lineup. Barrett's future from there will depend on his performance.