In basketball, it’s a common saying that “there’s only one ball” when star players team up. The New York Knicks have three established main options in their starting lineup: Jalen Brunson, Mikal Bridges, and Julius Randle. Although Randle has been with the team the longest, it seems the team is shifting toward being led by Brunson. With a player option for next season, could this be a critical season for Randle, a two-time All-NBA forward?
Julius Randle is entering a critical season in his career
Randle has had a polarizing reputation with Knicks fans and management over the years. There have been trade rumors surrounding him since 2020, but he has remained with the team. He was a key player for New York and the No. 1 option before Brunson’s arrival. Randle was instrumental in shaping the Knicks into what they are today.
However, last season, Randle experienced a significant setback. He suffered a dislocated right shoulder in a game against the Miami Heat on January 27th, which was initially expected to keep him out for a few months, with a possible return in time for the NBA Playoffs. Unfortunately, Randle ended up missing the entire rest of the season, while the Knicks finished as the second seed in the Eastern Conference.
Randle is willing to play any role to help the Knicks win
Without Randle last season, New York went 21-15 in his absence, which was the seventh-best win percentage in the league. Brunson has risen to new heights, becoming the cornerstone and now captain of the Knicks. The acquisitions of OG Anunoby and, more recently, Mikal Bridges have raised expectations for the team to contend for the title. In the latest edition of Knicks mailbag with NBA Insider Ian Begley, he stated, “The 29-year-old will accept any role that’s asked of him on this Knicks team if it leads to winning.”
Randle has even been hinted at playing the five position more by head coach Tom Thibodeau, but only in 10-15 minute increments. Begley added that Randle, “wants to win and win in New York.” The Mecca once again resonates with elite NBA talent and could be the key to Randle’s long-term commitment to the Knicks.
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Randle’s performance this upcoming season could determine his future
After the upcoming season, Randle will have to consider a new deal. Not being extended this summer surprised Knicks fans, especially since Brunson’s discounted extension was smoothly taken care of. Randle has a player option, and based on previous statements, it seems there’s no rush to get a deal done. If the Knicks win it all, there’s a high chance that Randle will stay with the team.
However, if things don’t go as planned and they don’t make the NBA Finals, then Randle may look to sign elsewhere, and the Knicks would be willing to accommodate that. Why would Randle leave a situation like that in New York? The likelihood of a reduced role in the upcoming season is high, giving the Knicks leverage in negotiations. His level of production could be the difference in getting a maximum deal.
Even though New York knows his worth, it’s understandable for them to want to retain all the talent on the roster. If Randle plays a reduced role and doesn’t win big, then going to another team that will pay him to be the second option might be more suitable for Randle’s career and quality of production. This upcoming season will be historic for the Knicks, however the dominos fall.
