New York Knicks rookie R.J. Barrett scored a career-high 27 points on Tuesday night during a 143-120 win over the Atlanta Hawks at Madison Square Garden.
The third overall pick finished by shooting 10-of-13 from the field while he went 2-of-3 from 3-point range. Barrett also hauled in five rebounds in the contest as topped his previous career-high of 26 points. The performance by Barrett snapped a recent cold streak after totaling just 15 points on 26.9% (7-of-26) from the field over his last two games.
Barrett was efficient in the game on Tuesday as he was active on the offensive end of the floor by cutting and driving to the basket. He looked to be the rookie that started off the season on fire and he even threw down a nasty dunk over fellow rookie De’Andre Hunter.
RJ Barrett with the big dunk after driving on De'Andre Hunter. He's got 25 points tonight — one point off his career high. Knicks are just doing whatever they want on the Hawks. pic.twitter.com/MjOu9zs9ec
— Mike Vorkunov (@MikeVorkunov) December 18, 2019
After his career night, Barrett stopped and talked to Vince Carter as it marked the last game for the eight-time NBA All-Star at the Garden following his decision to retire at the end of the season.
Vince Carter shared a moment with rookie RJ Barrett after his last game at MSG 🤝 pic.twitter.com/RCoH7nop1c
— SportsCenter (@SportsCenter) December 18, 2019
Since firing head coach David Fizdale, the Knicks have posted a 3-3 record and have won three out of their last four games. Barrett continues to log heavy minutes as he adjusts to life in the NBA.
Next up for the Knicks: A road matchup Friday in Miami.
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