ORLANDO — RJ Barrett participated in a Tuesday morning workout with the Knicks and wants to return to the starting lineup against the Magic after missing one game with a non-COVID sickness.
“Feeling better. Barrett, who was a late scratch for Sunday’s home victory over the 76ers, stated, “I’m going to try.” “I began to feel it as soon as I was on my way to [the Garden].
“I attempted to take some medication in an effort to get ready. I followed my regimen and attempted to warm up, but I was unable to.”
The Knicks’ final game before Thursday’s 3 p.m. trade deadline will be Tuesday’s contest against the rising Magic. By trading Kyrie Irving to the Mavericks, the Nets pulled off the first blockbuster of the season.
“You see it. Barrett stated that he solely reads Woj’s posts, referring to ESPN NBA insider Adrian Wojnarowski. “But yeah, it’s that time, so I’m sure Kyrie will be the first player to be traded, and I’m sure something will happen before the deadline.”
The Knicks are rumored to be pursuing perimeter assistance such as Toronto’s OG Anunoby or Portland’s Josh Hart after failing to acquire All-Star guard Donovan Mitchell last summer.
“I just do my job, man. Barrett continued, “I just come in and play basketball.” “I’m concentrating on the team we currently have and leaving management to their duties.”
The Knicks (29-26) began Tuesday’s contest a half-game behind Miami for the sixth and final Eastern Conference playoff spot. They upset the Heat at home last week without starting point guard Jalen Brunson, and they overcame the 76ers on Sunday without Barrett thanks to excellent contributions from Evan Fournier, Miles McBride, and Isaiah Hartenstein.
“This is known as a team. “When one of us is eliminated, it’s the next man up,” Barrett explained. “We’re already without Mitch [Robinson], but it’s a testament to the fact that our team and players are receiving more chances and opportunities and proving their worth. The fact that we have a full roster is really positive.”
Barrett said “not really” when asked if he had a relationship with fellow Duke product Paulo Banchero for Tuesday’s game. In 47 games, the 20-year-old forward averaging 20.3 points and 6.6 rebounds for the Magic, who have won six of their last ten contests.
Barrett stated, “I was able to attend a Duke game at Madison Square Garden last year, where I met him and AJ Griffin, among others.” “It’s great to see how far he’s come and what an incredible year he’s been having. He is quite gifted. He has been a tremendous aid to them. This year they’ve improved significantly, so they got an excellent one.”
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