'Mr. December' turns it on again for surging Knicks

After scoring 27 points in Friday's win against Chicago, Barrett said a “weird” offseason impacted his training schedule. Due to contract negotiations, he was unable to play for Team Canada and his name came up in trade discussions for Donovan Mitchell.

In August, after New York failed to land Mitchell, Barrett agreed to a four-year contract extension worth up to $120 million. 

In each of the past two seasons, Barrett started slowly. 

In the first 20 games of the 2020-21 season, Barrett averaged 17.8 points, shooting 42.1% from the field and 28.8% from three. In the first 20 games last season, he averaged a measly 14.6 points on 39.4% shooting from the field and 32.1% from three. 

Offseason conditioning could play a factor, but is it possible that Barrett isn't fond of playing in November? The 2020-21 season, when he had his strongest start, began in December due to COVID-19.

For his career in November, Barrett only averages 15.5 points on 38.9% shooting from the field and 29.9% from deep. 

If history repeats itself, Barrett and the Knicks shouldn't have much to worry about. Aside from breaking out of his early slump each season, Barrett should be able to realize his full potential playing alongside offseason addition Jalen Brunson. 

Barrett must continue to return to form for the Knicks to add to the NBA's longest current winning streak. On Tuesday night, they will host the title-defending Golden State Warriors, who won't have Stephen Curry (left shoulder).

New York hasn’t beaten Golden State at Madison Square Garden since Curry’s 54-point breakout performance in 2013.