Zhao Rui and Zhou Qi's swap had many fans believing that Xinjiang was the winner at the time, as Zhou Qi hadn't played for Xinjiang for quite some time, while Zhao Rui, a top-tier guard in the league, could fill the gap in the team's backcourt position. Although his strength is undeniable, Zhao Rui's endurance and fiery temper may have side effects for Xinjiang.
Previously, Qi Lin was suspended by the league for angrily scolding the referee during a match against Beikong. After returning from suspension in this game against Shandong, Qi Lin managed to restrain himself somewhat, only for Zhao Rui, the "mindless one," to steal the show. Early in the game, after completing a difficult layup and failing to get a foul call, Zhao Rui erupted at the referee. His subsequent action led to his ejection from the game; not content with just yelling at the referee, Zhao Rui deliberately collided with the official using his shoulder, an act of provocation that resulted in his disqualification.
During his last season with Guangdong, Zhao Rui was prone to emotional outbursts, which affected his enthusiasm for the game. Now in Xinjiang, he and Qi Lin's "mindless and unhappy" combination could potentially become a stumbling block on the team's path to the championship. So far, Zhao Rui has only played 13 games for Xinjiang, averaging 10.2 points, 3.1 rebounds, and 4.8 assists in 24.8 minutes per game, with a three-point shooting percentage of 37.5%. This average of 10.2 points marks the lowest since the 17-18 season.
In these 13 games this season, Zhao Rui has scored double digits in only 5 matches. On the court, he often appears lackadaisical. Previously in Guangdong, he criticized the team's young players for insufficient support. Now in Xinjiang, Zhao Rui, unable to openly criticize his teammates, directly expresses his dissatisfaction on the court. He has clashed with referees more than once this season.
A player of Zhao Rui's caliber, if he were to focus seriously on playing without being influenced by referees, could undoubtedly perform much better. However, it is precisely because of his role as a catalyst that Liu Wei has had to scout young guards like Xi Erzati and Yili Fula, who have indeed proven themselves this season. In terms of on-court performance, Zhao Rui is indeed not as good as these two young players.
After signing a top salary with Xinjiang, Zhao Rui has become even more unrestrained than in his last season with Guangdong. He starts "load management" after playing for a while, takes long-term injury leaves, and then takes leave without reason. Over the years, his ball skills have not improved, but his explosive temper has grown. Even with real talent, it is unlikely that Guo Shiqiang will call him up to the national team during the next window period.