RJ Barrett made good on his promise.
The former Knicks wing, now with the Raptors after sending OG Anunoby to the Garden in a blockbuster trade in late December, plans to post a farewell video to Knicks fans after Saturday night's matchup. He said. We've been playing with each other since we signed.
Immanuel Quickley, who was also traded to Toronto, previously wrote a lengthy article in the Players' Tribune thanking Knicks fans.
However, Barrett has yet to publicly message his former fans since the trade.
“I want to say thank you, New York,” Barrett said in the post. “I just hugged a 19-year-old kid from Canada. It's a dream come true, getting drafted, and being able to play every night in front of great fans at Madison Square Garden. Even if it's the first game of the playoffs, the winner vs. It was really surreal hearing all the fans screaming at the Celtics game.
“I have a lot of great memories with my teammates, the coaching staff, the whole organization. You guys have a lot of really great memories. I had a lot of people to thank. I enjoyed being in New York and It was fun to be there, you were everything that a Knicks fan embodies, I want to say thank you for accepting me and supporting me in every way on and off the court. Thank you for being in the starting lineup whether you hear your name announced or not, hearing your screams, and thank you for the love you receive all over the city. You all mean so much and I will always be there. I appreciate everyone's gratitude.”
Barrett had 20 points, eight rebounds and four assists in Saturday's 126-100 loss to Toronto.
Since joining the Raptors, Barrett is averaging 20.2 points, 7.0 rebounds and 3.6 assists per game.
“My teammates, we've been through many wars together, many dogfights together,” Barrett said. “Be grateful for everything on and off the court. Every lesson is so appreciated. I'll never forget my time in New York. But at the end of the day, life goes on and with the Raptors… When I get home, I'm excited and hungry. I'm hungry for more and I'm really excited to see what this team can do.”
Knicks center Isaiah Hartenstein left Saturday's win in the third quarter with left ankle soreness.
Already without Mitchell Robinson, the Knicks could hardly afford any more injuries at center.
However, if Hartenstein is forced to sit out, the Knicks are confident backup Jericho Sims will get more playing time.
Sims played three minutes Saturday and finished with one block.
After Saturday's win, Tom Thibodeau said, “Jericho is ready.” “So when his opportunity comes, I know he'll do well. He's active and a great rebounder. He brings a lot to our team as well.”
