NEW YORK, NEW YORK - OCTOBER 15: Mitchell Robinson #23 and RJ Barrett #9 of the New York Knicks looks on against the Washington Wizards during a preseason game at Madison Square Garden on October 15, 2021 in New York City. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Steven Ryan/Getty Images)

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - OCTOBER 15: Mitchell Robinson #23 and RJ Barrett #9 of the New York Knicks looks on against the Washington Wizards during a preseason game at Madison Square Garden on October 15, 2021 in New York City. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Steven Ryan/Getty Images)

Knicks Rumors

3 Knicks players who could be traded during the 2023-24 season

by Desmond Novack
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RJ Barrett, New York Knicks. (Photo by Brad Penner/USA TODAY Sports)

1. RJ Barrett

Throughout the offseason, fans have seen RJ Barrett’s name be floated around in trade talks. This is because of his relatively poor play and the Knicks’ need for a more consistent third option behind Julius Randle and Jalen Brunson. Regardless of if Barrett shows marginal improvement next season, we could still see him get traded away.

If Barrett plays at a higher level than in previous seasons, Rose and the Knicks’ front office could capitalize on his value and use him in a package for a superstar player. However, if Barrett continues to struggle, he’ll likely get traded for a more consistent low-tier All-Star like Zach LaVine.

It’s unfortunate that we’re at the point in Barrett’s career where he’s being talked about more as a trade piece than a franchise player. However, the Knicks can’t afford to waste more time hoping that Barrett will turn into an All-Star level player. New York has a limited championship window and can’t keep waiting on him to develop.

Hopefully, Barrett plays so well to the point where the Knicks cannot trade him, but as of now, this doesn’t seem likely. Unless Rose is more hesitant to trade his top-level players than previously thought, it seems like there’s a good chance that Barrett’s time in New York could be cut short.

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