RJ Barrett NBA Career: How Many Years Has He Played?

Let's dive into RJ Barrett's NBA career and find out just how long he's been lighting up the court. For fans and those curious about his journey, we'll break down his entry into the league, key milestones, and what he's been up to since joining the pros.

Early Days and Draft Entry

RJ Barrett, a name synonymous with basketball excellence, didn't just appear out of nowhere. Born on June 14, 2000, in Toronto, Canada, Rowan Alexander “RJ” Barrett Jr. was marked for greatness from an early age. His father, Rowan Barrett, was a professional basketball player himself, even representing Canada at the Olympics. Talk about having basketball in your blood!

Before entering the NBA, RJ made waves as a high school phenom. He attended Montverde Academy in Florida, a school known for its powerhouse basketball program. There, he led his team to multiple national championships and earned numerous individual accolades. His exceptional skills and court awareness quickly made him one of the top prospects in the nation. Everyone had their eyes glued on his games, anticipating his next big move.

Following his impressive high school career, RJ committed to Duke University, one of the most prestigious college basketball programs in the United States. Playing under the legendary Coach Mike Krzyzewski, Barrett continued to shine. He teamed up with fellow future NBA stars Zion Williamson and Cam Reddish to form a formidable trio. The Duke Blue Devils became must-watch TV, with RJ showcasing his scoring ability, athleticism, and playmaking skills.

In his single season at Duke, RJ Barrett averaged an impressive 22.6 points, 7.6 rebounds, and 4.3 assists per game. He earned several awards, including ACC Freshman of the Year and First-Team All-ACC honors. Though Duke fell short of winning the NCAA Tournament, RJ’s performance solidified his status as a top NBA prospect. His time at Duke was short but incredibly impactful, setting the stage for his professional career.

As the 2019 NBA Draft approached, RJ Barrett was widely projected to be a top pick. His combination of size, skill, and basketball IQ made him an attractive prospect for any team. On June 20, 2019, his dreams came true when the New York Knicks selected him with the third overall pick. This moment marked the beginning of his NBA journey, and the Big Apple was ready to embrace its newest star. New York fans, known for their passion and intensity, eagerly awaited RJ's arrival, hoping he would bring a spark back to the Knicks franchise.

RJ Barrett's NBA Career Timeline

So, how long has RJ Barrett been hooping in the NBA? Let's break down his career year by year.

2019-2020: Rookie Season

RJ Barrett's NBA journey officially began in the 2019-2020 season when he joined the New York Knicks. Expectations were high as he entered the league as the third overall pick. Right from the start, RJ was thrown into the mix, playing significant minutes and shouldering a considerable load for the Knicks. This was his chance to show everyone what he could do, and he seemed ready to accept the challenge.

During his rookie season, Barrett showed flashes of the potential that made him a top prospect. He displayed his scoring ability, driving to the basket and knocking down shots from the perimeter. While there were some expected rookie struggles, such as inconsistent shooting and turnovers, his overall performance was promising. He demonstrated a willingness to learn and improve, which was a good sign for his future development.

In his first year, RJ averaged a solid 14.3 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 2.6 assists per game. These numbers are respectable for a rookie playing on a rebuilding team. He had several standout performances, including a few games where he scored over 20 points. These moments provided Knicks fans with glimpses of the star player he could become.

Beyond the stats, Barrett's rookie season was about adjusting to the speed and physicality of the NBA. He faced tough matchups against some of the league's best players, which helped him learn and grow. He also began to understand the nuances of the professional game, such as how to read defenses and make better decisions with the ball. This learning curve is crucial for any young player aiming to have a long and successful career.

2020-2021: Sophomore Surge

In his second season, 2020-2021, RJ Barrett showed significant improvement and began to establish himself as a key player for the Knicks. With a year of NBA experience under his belt, he appeared more confident and comfortable on the court. This was the season where he started to turn potential into tangible results.

One of the most notable improvements in Barrett's game was his shooting. He increased his three-point percentage from 32% in his rookie year to 40.1% in his second season. This jump made him a more dangerous offensive threat, forcing defenders to respect his outside shot. His improved shooting opened up driving lanes and allowed him to score more efficiently.

Overall, RJ's scoring average increased to 17.6 points per game, along with 5.8 rebounds and 3.0 assists. These numbers reflected his growing role in the Knicks' offense. He became a more consistent scorer and playmaker, contributing to the team's success in multiple ways. His increased production was a clear indication of his development.

Moreover, the Knicks had a much better season overall, making the playoffs for the first time in several years. Barrett played a crucial role in their success, providing consistent scoring and solid defense. His contributions helped the team exceed expectations and bring excitement back to Madison Square Garden. The playoffs were a valuable experience for him, giving him a taste of high-stakes basketball.

2021-2022: Continued Growth

The 2021-2022 season marked another step forward in RJ Barrett's development. He continued to improve his offensive game and take on a larger role in the Knicks' offense. Consistency was key this season, as he aimed to solidify his status as a reliable scorer and playmaker.

During this season, RJ averaged 20.0 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 3.0 assists per game. This was the first time he averaged over 20 points per game, a significant milestone in his career. He showcased his ability to score in various ways, whether it was driving to the basket, hitting mid-range shots, or knocking down three-pointers. His offensive versatility made him a difficult matchup for opposing defenders.

While the Knicks didn't replicate their playoff success from the previous season, Barrett's individual growth was a bright spot. He demonstrated his ability to carry the offensive load and make plays in crucial moments. His confidence on the court was evident, and he continued to show progress in his overall game. This season was a testament to his hard work and dedication.

Additionally, Barrett worked on his playmaking skills, becoming a better passer and decision-maker. He showed a greater understanding of how to create opportunities for his teammates, which made the Knicks' offense more dynamic. His development as a playmaker added another dimension to his game and made him a more well-rounded player.

2022-2023: Maturing Role

In the 2022-2023 season, RJ Barrett further solidified his role as a key component of the New York Knicks. Entering his fourth year, there were increasing expectations for him to be a consistent leader and impact player. This season was about taking on more responsibility and continuing to refine his skills.

Throughout the season, RJ averaged 19.6 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 2.8 assists per game. While his scoring average was slightly lower than the previous season, his overall impact on the game remained significant. He focused on efficiency and making smart decisions, contributing to the team's success in multiple ways.

One of the key aspects of Barrett's game this season was his improved defensive effort. He became a more engaged and effective defender, using his size and athleticism to disrupt opponents. His defensive contributions were a valuable asset for the Knicks, helping them become a more well-rounded team.

2023-2024: Traded to Toronto Raptors

During the 2023-2024 season, a significant change occurred in RJ Barrett's career. He was traded from the New York Knicks to the Toronto Raptors. This move marked a homecoming for the Toronto native and provided him with a new opportunity to shine in his home country.

Prior to the trade, RJ had been a consistent contributor for the Knicks, averaging 18.2 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 2.4 assists in 26 games. While his numbers were solid, the Knicks decided to make a change in hopes of improving their roster. The trade sent RJ back to Canada, where he would join the Raptors and play in front of his hometown fans.

Since joining the Raptors, RJ has embraced his new role and shown flashes of brilliance. He's demonstrated his scoring ability and athleticism, fitting in well with the team's style of play. Playing in Toronto has given him a new sense of motivation, and he's eager to prove himself as a valuable asset for the Raptors.

So, How Long Has He Been In The NBA?

As of today, June 14, 2024, RJ Barrett has been in the NBA for 5 seasons. He was drafted in 2019 and has played through the 2023-2024 season. With his talent and work ethic, he has the potential to continue growing and achieving great things in the league. His journey is far from over, and fans are excited to see what the future holds for him.

What's Next for RJ Barrett?

Looking ahead, RJ Barrett has a bright future in the NBA. He has already shown significant improvement over his first five seasons, and there is still room for him to grow. As he continues to develop his skills and gain experience, he has the potential to become an even more impactful player. His dedication to the game and his willingness to learn will serve him well as he navigates his career.

Playing for the Toronto Raptors, RJ has the opportunity to become a key player and leader for his hometown team. He will likely be given more responsibility and a chance to showcase his full potential. With the support of the Raptors' coaching staff and his teammates, he has the chance to thrive and make a significant impact in the league. His career is just beginning, and there are many exciting chapters yet to be written.

In conclusion, RJ Barrett's journey in the NBA has been marked by growth, resilience, and potential. From his early days as a highly touted prospect to his current role as a valuable player for the Toronto Raptors, he has consistently shown his dedication to the game. With five seasons under his belt, he has already achieved a great deal, and the future looks bright for this talented young player. Keep an eye on RJ Barrett as he continues to make his mark on the NBA!