
The New York Knicks might have struck out on superstars like Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving this offseason, but they did manage to convince several quality veterans to join the ranks.
Players such as Marcus Morris and Julius Randle highlighted the slew of signings made by the desperate Knicks; a team packed full of youth and inexperience. However, the newfound veterans are already leaving their mark, especially Randle.
Taking a look at the top 3 positives New York Knicks’ Julius Randle brings to the team:
1.) Leadership
Right off the bat, Randle has been an excellent leader, talking with positivity and aspirations for the 2019-20 season. He’s been working hard this offseason to help prepare himself and his teammates to compete in one of the most intimidating places in the league — Madison Square Garden.
Recently, Randle promoted young center Mitchell Robinson and his potential in the NBA.
“‘When we played I was like, ‘who is this kid?’ Cause every time I went to the basket he was coming out of nowhere. I’m like, ‘Yo, what’s going on?’†Randle told Ian Begley of SNY. “I had no clue who he was. He has so much potential now he’s only scratching the surface and I’m excited to get, on the court with him.â€
As a five-year veteran, the former New Orleans Pelican brings plenty of experience and knowledge to the Knicks. He will not only be a leader but a mentor as well.
2.) Scoring production
Randle immediately becomes the Knicks top offensive player. Last season, he averaged 21.4 points per game in a secondary role behind Anthony Davis. The Knicks are expecting him to be a premier player in that facet, and that’s precisely what he will be.
Averaging 30.6 minutes per game, I expect that number to increase in New York, and Randle has been training for that expectation. More minutes, in theory, equals more points.
3.) Franchise image
Not only is Randle a leader and mentor, but he’s a humanitarian. He’s a perfect face for the franchise, as he’s always found giving back and doing good for society. That’s an underrated factor that New Yorkers love to see, second to winning.
Just last week, the Knicks’ marquee signing was handing backpacks to kids at a festival in the iconic Harlem Park. Being a part of the culture and society of NYC is essential for a big-name player, and Randle has taken the bull by the horns and stepped right into the concrete jungle with confidence.