This feels like it should be a bigger deal. RJ Barrett, a former No. 3 pick who’s employed in the NBA’s largest market, is eligible for an extension that has not been signed. Ja Morant and Zion Williamson are the only members of Barrett’s draft class to average more points through their first three seasons than his 17.5 per game, and Darius Garland is right behind them at 17.4. Over the past two weeks, the other three were rewarded with a five-year max contract by their respective organizations, while Barrett and the Knicks reportedly aren’t close to an agreement any time soon.
To be fair, New York’s hesitation—they have until mid-October to iron something out—is understandable. This isn’t an easy decision. If the Knicks don’t want to commit at least $193 million to Barrett through 2028, he’ll become a restricted free agent next summer, injecting a dose of uncertainty into a partnership that could be bolted down right now.
Before we get into the financial pros and cons for both sides, an obvious question must be asked: Is Barrett worth it? Morant is a supernova whose team had the second-best record in the league last season. When healthy, Zion is a candidate to become the eighth wonder of the world. Garland just made his first All-Star team and is a quintessential modern point guard.
