Former New York Knicks guard RJ Barrett admitted to feeling 'salty' watching his old team win the NBA championship last season after his trade to the Toronto Raptors. Barrett shared his candid thoughts in a recent interview. The Knicks, who are currently in strong form with four wins in their last five games, sealed their championship with a 94-90 victory over the San Antonio Spurs on June 14, 2026.
Barrett didn't hide his initial reaction. "At first definitely feel a little salty. A little bit in terms of, you know, we (the Raptors) lost." he stated. The contrast was stark. While the Raptors' 2025-26 campaign ended quickly, the Knicks were battling through a tough Finals series, winning games like their 107-106 nail-biter on June 11.
His feelings evolved quickly, though. Barrett said he reached out to congratulate his former teammates, many of whom he still considers friends. He noted that one player from that championship squad, Trey Jemison, is now his teammate in Toronto. "I'm very happy for them, but just hoping to bring some of that success over here," Barrett added, shifting the focus to his current mission.
All of Barrett's energy is now directed toward helping the Raptors compete. A major part of that new chapter is playing alongside two-time NBA Finals MVP Kawhi Leonard. The Raptors reacquired Leonard in a major offseason trade, sending Brandon Ingram, Gradey Dick, and draft capital to the Los Angeles Clippers.
Barrett, a lifelong Raptors fan, is thrilled. He recalled watching Leonard's iconic game-winner against Philadelphia in the 2019 playoffs. "I was jumping up and down." he said. He promised Raptors fans a daily grind and maximum effort from the team this coming season.
The New York Knicks are not resting on their laurels. Their championship run was built on resilience, evident in their recent 4W-1L form. After a 115-111 loss to the Spurs on June 9, they responded with two straight wins to clinch the title. They are currently on a two-game winning run, a sign of the standard they've set.
Fans can track the team's progress and upcoming schedule on our schedule page as they prepare to defend their crown. The core that delivered the city its first title in decades appears hungry for more, setting up a fascinating NBA landscape where former players like Barrett are aiming to chase them down.
