R.J. Barrett starts off hot, finishes with 24 points vs. Clippers

R.J. Barrett snapped out of a recent shooting slump on Sunday after scoring 24 points in a 135-132 loss to the Clippers.

New York Knicks rookie R.J. Barrett snapped out of a recent shooting slump on Sunday after scoring 24 points in a 135-132 loss to the Los Angeles Clippers.

Barrett finished by shooting 7-of-11 from the field while adding six rebounds, one steal and one block. The third overall pick started off hot by scoring 10 of his 24 points in the first quarter alone and drilled his first five shots to begin the game.

Barrett entered Sunday shooting just 29% (13-of-45) from the field, including 32% from 3-point range, over his last four games. Although the Knicks lost, his outing against the Clippers was likely much-needed to help regain some confidence after struggling recently.

Barrett was defended by Paul George for much of the contest and showed little problems against the four-time NBA All-Defensive Team selection. Barrett has had an up and down rookie campaign but has proven to be capable of taking over games this season and appears to be destined for a bright future.

The Knicks return to action on Tuesday against the L.A. Lakers.

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