2019 NBA Mock Draft: Fallout from Zion Williamson’s injury gives others a chance to shine

What a great week for Barrett. The first time Barrett played without Zion Williamson, he provided a glimpse of what he could do with more shot attempts and even greater playmaking responsibility, scoring 32 points against Florida State, a game which Williamson left early with an eye injury. The past two full games, with Williamson out with a right knee injury, Barrett has averaged 32 points, nine rebounds and six assists, playing the full 40 minutes in both contests.

Most of the damage has come in transition and at the basket. Barrett has shot 59.5 percent from 2-point range the past two games, his first two contests with more than 20 shot attempts in a month. He’s taking advantage of the opportunity to show what he can do as the go-to guy.

Perhaps most exciting is Barrett’s ability to grab a rebound (8.7 per 40 minutes on the year) and go. He is big enough to turn those situations into good shot attempts close to the room and getting more patient and decisive, meaning the threat of a pass on the move is growing more worrisome for opposing defenses. Unfortunately, Barrett also piled up eight turnovers in the two games without Williamson compared with just 11 assists — he often loses the ball inside and tries too hard to make the tough play sometimes when the talent around him offers an easier one.

The balance he would provide alongside Collin Sexton, however, is too perfect for Cleveland to pass on.