R.J. Barrett got caught in the shadow of Zion Williamson, an unfortunate position for the preseason consensus No. 1 pick. He still showed out, though, leading Duke in scoring and producing at a historic rate for a freshman. He caught some undeserved flack in the process.
There were moments when Barrett’s approach was problematic, but in general, his aggressiveness as a slasher and finisher is promising. He needs to improve his touch, but Barrett gets to the rim in long strides, showing tremendous pace and keeping defenders off balance with his pull-up threat.
If Barrett can lean into his passing more, cut down on ill-advised long twos and become a more consistent shooter, he has star potential. He’s an excellent athlete, a hard-nosed defender when engaged and has the best pedigree of any prospect in the 2019 class. He’s firmly in the top-three.