3. R.J. Barrett, Duke
The potential number one pick in the 2019 NBA Draft turns up at number 3 overall in the kPOY rankings. R.J. Barrett has been compared to James Harden because of his ability to score the ball. Barrett has moved up this list significantly since their loss to Gonzaga. The freshman has averaged 26.2 points, 9.5 rebounds, and 4.5 assists in the last four games after their loss in the Maui Invitational Championship game.
Barrett has had an incredible freshman season thus far, averaging 24.2 points, 7.2 rebounds, and 4.2 assists. He is a great wing scorer, who has the ability to get to his spots and knock it down. Barrett also has the ability to score creatively due to his great athleticism. His athleticism also gives him the ability to compete on the defensive end of the floor, as well as, grab rebounds. Barrett has also dazzled his play-making skills as of late.
The Duke Blue Devils are ranked 1st overall, even after starting the season (9-1) with a loss to Gonzaga. The Blue Devils AdjO is ranked 2nd and their AdjD is ranked 5th overall. What has really propelled the Blue Devil’s so far is their commitment on the defensive side of the ball. Blue Devil team’s in recent years have been able to score, but not play defensive consistently. This team has decided to commit to playing defense and it all starts with on-ball pressure and jumping passing lanes. The Blue Devil’s take on #12 Texas Tech on Tuesday, December 20 in Madison Square Garden.