The 2024 NBA landscape is dominated by teams chasing titles with rosters packed with star power. As contenders look to build competitive lineups, the need for a third star is crucial. Enter RJ Barrett, who should be a hot trade target as a young, emerging third star. At just 24 years old, Barrett just completed the first year of a four-year, $107 million contract with the Toronto Raptors, carrying a cap hit of $25.7 million for the 2024-25 season. That price tag makes RJ Barrett an attractive trade target for any contender seeking a cost-effective, high-impact player.
NBA Business: RJ Barrett Is the ‘Perfect’ Third Star
A Bargain
By comparison, the third star on most contending teams commands far more salary. Players like Jrue Holiday ($30 million), Kristaps Porzingis ($29.2 million), and Khris Middleton ($31.6 million) out-earn Barrett this season. Meanwhile, other third stars, like Paul Goerge and Rudy Gobert are making $49.2 million and $43.8 million, respectively. Even Bradley Beal, another third option on the Phoenix Suns, is earning a massive $50.2 million this year. Barrett offers a rare opportunity as a well-priced third star, especially considering his production and potential.
Since joining the Toronto Raptors following the OG Anunoby trade, RJ Barrett has proven his value. In 33 games with the Raptors, Barrett posted career-high numbers across the board, averaging 21.8 points, 6.4 rebounds, and 4.1 assists per game. His points per game mark represents his highest-scoring stretch in the NBA, albeit in a small sample size. Still, Barrett’s improvement shows he can take on a larger role and produce efficiently.
Barrett’s shooting has also improved. During his time with Toronto, he shot an impressive 39.2% from three, a significant leap from his previous seasons. This makes him an inside-out threat, a key attribute for a wing player in today’s NBA. His effective field goal percentage of 60.1% further showcases his development as a versatile scorer. Barrett’s ability to finish at the rim while maintaining a reliable outside shot makes him a tough matchup for opposing defenders. His size — standing 6’5” with a 6’10” wingspan — adds to his value as a two-way player.
RJ Barrett is a Perfect Trade Target
For teams searching for a trade target, Barrett’s age, contract, and skill set make him the perfect third star. At 24 years old, he’s young enough to grow into his role while offering immediate impact. His contract, with an annual salary of $25.7 million, is a bargain compared to other third stars in the league. Contenders looking to bolster their roster can benefit from Barrett’s production without sacrificing too much cap space. Additionally, his height and wingspan give him defensive versatility, allowing him to guard multiple positions on the floor.
One of the most appealing aspects of Barrett’s game is his improvement as an inside-out threat. According to advanced stats from CraftedNBA, Barrett ranks among the top players in scoring efficiency from the wing position. His combination of driving to the rim and hitting threes makes him a nightmare for defenders. Whether playing off the ball or initiating offense, Barrett’s balanced game fits seamlessly alongside established superstars.
Contenders looking to make a splash in the 2024-2025 season should seriously consider an RJ Barrett trade. His youth, price, and performance make him an ideal third option. While stars like George and Beal command significantly more money, Barrett delivers similar production at a fraction of the cost. With his career highs in points, rebounds, assists, and three-point shooting, Barrett is trending toward becoming an elite player at the wing position.
The Last Word
In today’s NBA, building a championship team requires more than just two superstars. It’s the third star who can often be the deciding factor in the postseason. RJ Barrett has all the tools to fill that role. He can complement existing stars, handle the ball when needed, and defend multiple positions. And with his contract, Barrett is a steal for any team looking to make a deep playoff run without breaking the bank. An RJ Barrett trade might just be the missing piece for teams on the cusp of a title. His inside-out scoring, defensive versatility, and cap-friendly deal make him an ideal fit for any contender aiming for long-term success.
