New York Knicks head coach David Fizdale says rookie RJ Barrett reminds him of Los Angeles Clippers superstar small forward Kawhi Leonard.
Fizdale says Barrett's demeanor and mannerisms are very similar to Leonard's:
“He's really put together. There's times he's not sweating and I'm like, ‘Are you going hard?' He is. He's playing really hard,” Fizdale said, via SNY. “The only other guy I saw who I've coached against that doesn't look like is breaking a sweat is Kawhi. Kawhi doesn't look like he's breathing (hard). RJ has that same act where he's out there, his face doesn't change and he's going about his business.”
Through the Knicks' first six games of the season, Barrett has been solid. The lefty is averaging 17.7 points, 6.5 rebounds and 3.3 assists while shooting 44.1 percent from the field, 39.1 percent from beyond the arc and 45.5 percent from the free-throw line.
The Knicks, after losing to the Boston Celtics on Friday, are 1-5 on the season. Their lone win was against the Chicago Bulls at home, a game which saw New York erase an 18-point deficit.
Leonard is arguably the best player in the league. Fizdale is obviously not comparing Barrett's skill level to Leonard.
The Knicks can only hope RJ turns into a Leonard-type of player down the line.
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