Is Julius Randle Still Useful to the New York Knicks?
After the signing of Mikal Bridges, many believe that Julius Randle is no longer a functional player for the Knicks
Following the announcement of Mikal Bridges‘ move to the Knicks, numerous analytical videos have explored the implications of this move for the New York team.
One recurring theme among experts has been the role of Julius Randle, a player who, despite averaging 24 points, 9.2 rebounds, and 5 assists per game, has faced a lot of criticism. Many fans have expressed doubts about his future, stating that “Julius Randle no longer fits the team”, “We saw the Knicks play better without Randle in the playoffs”, and “The Knicks should consider trading Randle”. These opinions have surprised many, especially considering that the former Lakers forward was recently selected as an All-Star.
The Knicks had a challenging 2024 season, marked by numerous injuries. However, January represented a turning point for the team. The acquisition of OG Anunoby and the addition of Donte DiVincenzo, who replaced Quentin Grimes in the starting lineup, led the Knicks into a great run of form.
With a 12-2 record in the first 14 games of the new year, the team secured significant wins against opponents like the Timberwolves, Nuggets (with a 38-point lead), and Sixers (with a 36-point lead). This success coincided with a great run of form for Randle.
In January, Randle showcased the best basketball of his career, averaging 24.9 points, shooting 48% from the field, 37% from three, 5.3 assists, and 8.3 rebounds, with a +/- of 10.8. This month highlighted a significant evolution in his game, aided by improved spacing that allowed him to adapt better compared to previous seasons.
Another aspect of Randle’s improvement is his increased use of corner shots. Often misunderstood as a low-post player, the Kentucky product has enhanced his ability to operate from the high post, allowing him to see the court better and make quicker decisions. This change has enabled him to better utilize the space created by his teammates.
The criticisms directed at Randle seem to ignore his improvements and his crucial role in the team’s growth. With the right support and a more balanced perspective, the former Pelicans player could still prove to be a valuable asset for the Knicks in the 2024/25 NBA season.