RJ Barrett delivered on his promise.
The ex-Knicks wing, now with the Raptors after the team’s late-December blockbuster trade that sent OG Anunoby to the Garden, had said he was going to post a farewell video to Knicks fans after Saturday night’s clash, the first time the two teams played each other since the deal.
Immanuel Quickley, who was also sent to Toronto in the trade, had previously written a long article with the Players’ Tribune thanking Knicks fans.
But Barrett had not yet overtly sent a message to his former fans since the trade.
“New York, I want to say thank you,” Barrett said in the post. “For just embracing a 19-year-old kid from Canada. Making my dreams come true, getting drafted, being able to play at Madison Square Garden in front of all the amazing fans every night. It was truly surreal, whether it was that first playoff game, hearing all the fans screaming, to the game-winner versus the Celtics.
“I have so many amazing memories whether it’s with my teammates, coaching staff, just the whole organization. Everyone as a whole, I have so many amazing memories. I could thank so many people. I enjoyed being in New York, I enjoyed being in it, just everything that embodied Knicks fans, I want to say thank you for embracing me and thank you for supporting me on and off the court in every way, whether it’s hearing my name announced in the starting lineups and hearing you guys scream, to just the love that I would receive around the city. You guys really mean a lot and I’ll always appreciate that from you guys.”
Barrett recorded 20 points, eight rebounds and four assists in Saturday’s 126-100 Toronto loss.
Since joining the Raptors, Barrett is averaging 20.2 points, 7.0 rebounds and 3.6 assists per game.
“To all my teammates, you know, we’ve been through a lot of wars together, a lot of dogfights,” Barrett said. “Appreciate everything on and off the court. All the lessons have been much appreciated. I’ll never forget my time in New York. But at the end of the day, life continues and I’m back home with the Raptors, and I’m excited and I’m hungry. I’m hungry for more, and I’m just excited to see what this team will be able to do.”
Knicks center Isaiah Hartenstein exited Saturday’s win in the third quarter with a sore left ankle.
Already without Mitchell Robinson, the Knicks could hardly afford another injury at center.
But if Hartenstein is forced to miss time, the Knicks are confident in reserve Jericho Sims receiving more playing time.
Sims played three minutes on Saturday, finishing with one block.
“Jericho is, he’s ready,” Tom Thibodeau said after Saturday’s win. “So when his opportunity comes, I know he’ll do well. He’s active, a great rebounder. He brings a lot to our team as well.”
