8. RJ Barrett, New York Knicks
RJ Barrett is a player that has been subject to even more scrutiny due to the fact that he plays for the New York Knicks. Despite that, he’s done more than carried his own weight through the first few years of his career.
He’s coming off the best season of his career to date and doesn’t get enough credit for the work that he’s put in to improve on both ends of the floor. If he can clean up his 3-point shooting inconsistencies, Barrett could take another step in his progression.
Barrett is one of the most polarizing young players in the league. But we shouldn’t overcomplicate this. Barrett may not be a superstar but there’s no question that he can be a very good second or third option for a championship-contending team. Plus, he’s still getting better and making strides as a player.