Speaking on his podcast, ‘7PMinBrooklyn,’ Knicks legend Camelo Anthony gave his true thoughts on RJ Barrett, who was recently traded from the Knicks to the Toronto Raptors. Interestingly, Anthony didn’t have great things to say about RJ and tagged his game as ‘bland’ despite being a former No. 3 overall pick.
“He’s just a bland player bro. That’s not a shot. That’s not disrespect,” said Melo. “It’s just like, he’s good, he get it done sometimes, but he’s not an exciting player. You don’t know if he got 4 or 26.”
The definition of “bland” varies from person to person, but Barret would certainly not qualify as a box-office attraction. Known more for his defense, physicality, and drives to the rim, he’s never been a super exciting player to watch. And while he has his moments from time to time, Barrett has yet to take the leap into stardom, and many doubt that he ever will. Still, there is some hope that will change in Toronto this year.
NBA Fans Disagree With Melo
On social media, Anthony’s words sparked many debates among the fans, several of whom decided to make their points in the comments. Up and down the replies, fans were roasting Anthony for the take and accusing him of needlessly hating on the younger generation.
Damn, never thought I would see Melo hating on the younger generation!!
— MR BEAR 🐻🧸🐻❄️ (@teddy_blackmon) January 12, 2024
Whether right or wrong, many fans didn’t agree with Anthony calling out RJ like this, especially since he gave the Knicks some really good years.
Ngl this kinda seem like hating from melo, he ain’t wrong but it’s coming off as hating
— Jonathan (@hierro_98) January 12, 2024
There were some folks who tuned the tables on Anthony, using the opportunity to take a shot of their own at the multiple-time NBA All-Star.
Melo never won a title so he’s just bitter now
— pharmAziz (@pharmaziz) January 12, 2024
Clearly, the subject invokes some debate within the NBA community, but RJ will be remembered favorably by Knicks fans regardless. Since he was drafted in 2009, he’s grown and developed his game to become one of the top two-way wing players in the league. The same cannot be said of Camelo Anthony, who went out on less-than-favorable terms with the Knicks.
A Hot Start In Toronto
The best way for Barrett to prove Melo wrong is by putting on a show with his new team. With the RJ trade, the hope in Toronto was that the former Duke star would be unlocked to his fullest potential on a team better suited for his talents. Instead of Julius Randle taking control of the frontcourt offense, Barrett has a chance to take control for himself and he’s thriving in the opportunity so far. Through his first 6 games, Barrett is averaging 21.8 points, 6.8 rebounds, and 3.5 assists per game on 59.3% shooting.
Both RJ and the Raptors have looked better since the trade and this season could end up being a breakout campaign for the former third overall pick. As for Carmelo, there’s no taking back his words now but you can bet that the fans will have the receipts ready when/if Barrett goes on a run. For a guy who was never able to accomplish much in New York, Carmelo has to be careful with how he speaks or it could come back to bite him down the road.
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