RJ Barrett provided some positive news for the Knicks. After missing the last nine games with a sprained ankle, the Knicks rookie returned to practice and could be ready to go for their Thursday night contest against the Orlando Magic.
Barrett was a full participant in Wednesday's practice, telling reporters a Thursday return is possible. "I'm feeling good. Just working every day," Barrett said according to SNY. "Y'all saw me running up and down, so I'm feeling a lot better."
The third overall pick in last year's draft, Barrett has played in 41 games this season, averaging 14.1 points, 5.2 rebounds and 2.5 assists. Those numbers helped Barrett get selected to the NBA's Rising Stars game as part of All-Star Weekend.
Last week, it seemed unlikely that Barrett would be able to play in the game, but returning Thursday would likely make him ready to go All Star Weekend, Feb. 14-16. A native of Canada, Barrett will play for the World Team in healthy. In a season with few bright spots for the Knicks, who just fired team president Steve Mills, seeing Barrett develop could give Knicks fans something to be excited about.
