While it has been a few years since RJ Barrett was traded to the Toronto Raptors, New York Knicks superfan Ben Stiller is happy for him.
Stiller was live-posting throughout the Knicks' 50-point loss to the Raptors in the preseason. Early on, he gave Barrett his flowers, saying, “Always happy to see RJ get buckets.”
He added that he's happy to see Barrett succeed with any team, but he noted that his happiness is contingent on his success coming in the “preseason.” Barrett scored 17 points in 23 minutes against the Knicks in the preseason game.
Other fans agreed with his sentiment, with one commenting, “I am only happy for him in the preseason!” However, another fan praised him by saying, “He's a pro in every way.”
A Raptors fan was appreciative of Stiller's sentiment, responding, “Thanks[,] Ben[,] appreciate your love for RJ here in Toronto,” to his post.
Former Knicks star RJ Barrett's trade to the Raptors
On Dec. 30, 2023, the Knicks traded Barrett, Immanuel Quickley, and a 2024 second-round NBA Draft pick to the Raptors in exchange for OG Anunoby, Precious Achiuwa, and Malachi Flynn.
Article Continues BelowIt worked out for the Knicks, as Anunoby helped the franchise win their first championship in 53 years. His famous tip-in from Game 4 of the NBA Finals will go down in history as one of the greatest plays ever. As for Barrett, he was born in Toronto, Ontario, Canada, so he's playing for his hometown team.
Barrett has been good for the Raptors, keeping his scoring average around the same as it was on the Knicks. During the 2025-26 season, he averaged 19.3 points, 5.33 rebounds, and 3.3 assists per game.
The Knicks selected Barrett with the third pick in the 2019 NBA Draft out of Duke. Expectations were high after he made the ACC All-Freshman Team and First-team All-SEC in 2019. His father, Rowan Barrett, also played professional basketball. He is currently the general manager of the Canadian men's national team.