RJ Barrett Shines In New York Loss

Former Duke star is quickly building a reputation

RJ Barrett continues to impress as he continues his early season Brotherhood tour. Up Friday: Jayson Tatum and the Boston Celtics.

Barrett scored 26 on 9-20 from the floor including 4-6 from three point range.

He also had seven rebounds and three assists.

However, Tatum and the Celtics carried the day, winning 118-95. He scored 15 on 5-17 from the floor and also had nine rebounds and four steals.

And in an echo of last spring, 7-6 Tacko Fall got on the court for the Celtics and was wildly cheered by the New York crowd.

That was more than they were willing to do for Dennis Smith, who has become a target for unhappy New York fans. Coach Dave Fizdale told the New York Post that “[o]ur fans are passionate. I get it. The kid (Smith) is obviously struggling. We’ll look at the situation and continue to adjust. (The fans) know what they like and what they want. It doesn’t do anything to my mindset. I’m going to coach this team.’’

Smith has not played in the second half in the last two games and was reportedly visibly upset when he was yanked in this one.

Next up on Barrett’s Brotherhood tour: Wendell Carter and the Bulls Monday evening.