New York Knicks forward R.J. Barrett had an impressive performance during the crucial Game 5 win against the Miami Heat. With the Eastern Conference semifinals set to shift back to Miami for Game 6, Barrett shared his team’s mindset heading into another do-or-die game.
In a postgame interview with MSG, Barrett expressed that his team’s series deficit is indeed a challenge, but it is not insurmountable. “We’re fighting for our lives right now,” he said. “This is something that can be done. It’s been done 13 times before.”
Barrett’s reference to the previous 13 teams that have staved off a 3-1 deficit in the playoffs and won the series shows his confidence in his team’s ability to turn the tide. He is hopeful that the Knicks can steal a win in Miami on Friday and position themselves to increase that figure to 14 teams.
"We're fighting for our lives right now … This is something that can be done. It's been done before 13 times."
RJ Barrett on the Knicks coming back down 3-1. pic.twitter.com/84f69fRHwN
— KNICKS ON MSG (@KnicksMSGN) May 11, 2023
Although he scored 26 points in the win, Barrett is focusing on the task at hand, and that’s Game 6. He knows the Knicks have a lot of work to do, but they’re not backing down from the challenge.
Entering Wednesday night, the Knicks had a dismal record of 0-14 in games in which they trailed a series 3-1. However, they managed to secure their first win on their home floor against the Heat in Game 5, providing a much-needed boost to their morale.
Now, they’ll look to pick up a win in Miami, where they lost two games earlier in the series. With Barrett and the Knicks playing with such determination and tenacity, they may just pull off a historic comeback.
RJ Barrett Shines as Knicks Stay Alive in NBA Playoffs
The New York Knicks faced a must-win situation on Wednesday night in Game 5 of the Eastern Conference semifinals, and RJ Barrett stepped up to the challenge. The former third overall pick had a stellar performance, leading the Knicks to a 112-103 victory over the Miami Heat and keeping their playoff hopes alive.
Barrett was the team’s most consistent player in the series, apart from Jalen Brunson, and helped guide the Knicks to the much-needed victory in front of a packed crowd at Madison Square Garden. He finished the night with 26 points, seven rebounds, and solid defense, helping Quentin Grimes cool off the white-hot Heat star, Jimmy Butler.
Coach Tom Thibodeau praised Barrett’s performance, stating that he and Julius Randle were “terrific.” Barrett’s contributions were crucial in sending the series back to South Florida for Game 6 on Friday.
Despite being up and down throughout the season, Barrett has stepped up in the postseason, showcasing his potential and proving himself against a proven veteran team and coach in Erik Spoelstra. He has been averaging 22.0 points and 4.8 rebounds against the Heat, while most of his teammates have struggled.
With their backs against the wall, the Knicks will be looking to Barrett to continue his excellent form as they fight to stay alive in the playoffs.
