RJ Barrett will need to continue to improve if the Knicks are going to take further strides during the 2021-22 season. All-Star Julius Randle believes Barrett will take those steps.

“RJ’s going to be a really good player,” Randle told SNY.tv’s Ian Begley. “What is he, 21? I don’t know how old he is. He’s young as hell (laughs). He’s a really good player, and I can relate as far as what he’s done, and what I’ve seen from him so far in this offseason is he just keeps improving. That’s really what it’s about.”

Barrett was the subject of trade rumors this summer with the Knicks loosely linked to several stars.

The former No. 3 overall pick averaged 17.6 points and 5.8 rebounds during the 2020-21 season in which he took some major strides in his development. More will be needed this season if the Knicks are going to add to the accomplishments under coach Tom Thibodeau.

New York is currently +2500 to win the Atlantic Division.

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