RJ Barrett trade results in a win for everyone after one game

New York Knicks trade RJ Barrett for OG Anunoby, both players excel in their debut games with new teams. Win-win trade.

The trade between the New York Knicks and the Toronto Raptors on December 30 took everyone by surprise. The Knicks parted ways with former first-round pick RJ Barrett and popular guard Immanuel Quickley in exchange for OG Anunoby, with not much draft capital coming back to New York. However, the players had their first games with their new teams on Monday, and the results were as expected. It seems that the deal has worked out for everyone as intended.

OG Anunoby, known for his three-and-D style of play, made an immediate impact with the Knicks in their win over the Minnesota Timberwolves. He finished with 17 points, six rebounds, a pair of steals, and three triples, as well as some impressive dunks before fouling out in the fourth quarter. The Knicks didn't collapse after losing him, as Julius Randle took over and finished with 39 points. The Knicks won 112-106, and Anunoby was a +19 for the game.

On the other side, RJ Barrett's debut for the Toronto Raptors was a dream come true. He scored 19 points and finished with nine rebounds, exuding cool confidence in his role. His clutch free throws in the final seconds sealed the Raptors' 124-121 win over Cleveland.

It's only been one game, but the tape doesn't lie. This deal has already benefitted both teams, even as Quickley adjusts to being a starting point guard. Toronto gets his deadly range to fill the void left by Fred VanVleet, while Barrett's handle and ability to get to the basket makes him a great third option alongside Pascal Siakam and Scottie Barnes.

The Knicks also shored up their lineup and got some size in Precious Achiuwa. Everyone wins in this trade, as RJ Barrett gets to go home and play for the team he supported in his youth, and Quickley gets to prove he can run an offense before hitting free agency in July.

In conclusion, the trade seems to have worked out well for both the Knicks and the Raptors, and it will be interesting to see how the teams continue to perform in the future.

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