With the worst-case state of affairs averted, the Knicks anticipated RJ Barrett to be full throttle in a couple of month for offseason exercises.
Additional checks on Barrett confirmed the preliminary prognosis of a knee sprain as correct after he landed badly on a drive-and-dish to Jericho Sims late within the first half Friday in Washington.
Knicks coach Tom Thibodeau couldn’t rule out additional injury to the ACL on Friday night time, however these issues have since been put to relaxation.
“Only a sprain,’’ Thibodeau stated earlier than Sunday’s 105-94 season-closing win over the Raptors. “In order that’s the excellent news in a manner.’’
Excellent information. The Knicks aren’t within the postseason, so he solely missed Sunday’s contest. The staff will lay low for somewhat bit earlier than Thibodeau expects Barrett to be prepared.
“We’re going into lively relaxation, so there’s going to be a three-week interval the place there’ll be some exercise however very mild,’’ Thibodeau stated. “Everyone seems to be in restoration for the subsequent three weeks. Then we’ll decide up after that.”
Thibodeau stated he expects Barrett to be again round then. It’s a sigh of aid as Barrett was coming off a breakout season wherein he averaged 20 factors and confirmed All-Star potential.
“I’m at all times involved,’’ Thibodeau stated of his emotions that night. “You by no means need to see that awkward sort of touchdown. However then he performed. That half was encouraging. The following day there was soreness, however he stated he felt OK. That was signal.”
Barrett, with out crutches, watched Sunday’s recreation from the bench.
“I don’t know the precise specifics,’’ Thibodeau stated on whether or not Barrett underwent his MRI examination but. “He was examined by the medical doctors and trainers. What I bought is, it’s a sprain. We’ll simply observe the protocol from the trainers and medical doctors after which when he’s able to go, he’ll go.
“One factor about RJ, no matter it's he can do, he’ll do. He’ll be in rehab, then he’ll be within the pool, then on a motorbike. RJ is a employee. He’ll do all he can.’’
Whereas Barrett averaged 20.0 factors, it might be seen as deceiving due to his low taking pictures percentages — 40.8 general, 34.3 from 3 and a modest efficient field-goal proportion of 46.6. However the No. 3-overall decide of the 2019 draft confirmed a relentless attacking of the basket that was eye-opening.
Barrett, 21, will probably be in rivalry for a serious rookie contract extension in October — even when not the total most of $181 million.
“I assumed RJ took an awesome step this 12 months, took extra accountability masking the perfect participant on the opposite staff and actually has elevated his recreation,” Knicks president Leon Rose stated on MSG Community on Sunday relating to a contract extension. “I can’t actually put a ceiling on the place he’ll go. So far as the plan and negotiations, I believe we’ll maintain that personal for now.’’
With the Knicks all the way down to eight our bodies, Thibodeau stated he’d give enjoying time minutes Sunday to new two-way signee, Feron Hunt, who began the season with the G-League Texas Legends. He performed seven minutes, lacking a pair of photographs from the sphere.
Hunt, a defense-first small ahead/energy ahead, has already impressed Thibodeau together with his work ethic.
“Excessive vitality, performed two positions, glorious defender,’’ Thibodeau stated. “His taking pictures is enhancing. Only a multiple-effort man, only a lengthy wing. High-of-the-line man. I believe he provides to the staff so we’re enthusiastic about having him.’’
Thibodeau feels he may also guard taking pictures guards.
“I’ve been impressed with simply the way in which he works,’’ Thibodeau stated. “We’re excited. He’ll be right here all summer time so we’re enthusiastic about that.’’
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