Knicks All-Star Player Enters Biggest Season of His Career

There’s a saying in basketball that “there’s only one ball” when stars come together. The New York Knicks have three established starting options in Jalen Brunson, Mikal Bridges and Julius Randle. Although Randle has been with the team the longest, the team seems to be moving toward Brunson leading the way. With a player option for next season, could this be a pivotal season for Randle, a two-time All-NBA forward?

Julius Randle enters defining season of his career

Randle has had a polarizing reputation among Knicks fans and management over the years. There have been trade rumors since 2020, but he has remained with the team. A key player for New York and the No. 1 option before Brunson arrived, Randle has played a key role in shaping the Knicks into what they are today.

However, Randle suffered a major setback last season. He suffered a dislocated right shoulder in a game against the Miami Heat on January 27, which was initially expected to keep him out for several months, with a possible return in time for the NBA Playoffs. Unfortunately, Randle missed the entire season as the Knicks finished second in the Eastern Conference.

Randle is ready to play any role to help Knicks win

Without Randle last season, New York went 21-15 in his absence, which was the seventh-best winning percentage in the league. Brunson has soared to new heights, becoming a cornerstone and now captain of the Knicks. The additions of OG Anunoby and, most recently, Mikal Bridges have raised expectations for the team to contend for a title. In the latest edition of the Knicks mailbag with NBA Insider Ian Begley, he said, “The 29-year-old will take on any role the Knicks ask him to play if it leads to winning.”

Coach Tom Thibodeau even suggested Randle play the five positions more often, but only in 10- to 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.

Randle’s performance this upcoming season could determine his future

Randle will have to consider a new deal after the upcoming season. The lack of a contract extension this summer has surprised Knicks fans, especially since Brunson’s discounted extension was handled efficiently. Randle has a player option and based on previous statements, it seems there is no rush to sign a deal. If the Knicks win it all, there is a strong possibility Randle will stay.

However, if things don’t go according to plan and they don’t make it to the NBA Finals, Randle could consider signing elsewhere, and the Knicks would be willing to accept that. Why would Randle leave that situation in New York? The likelihood of a diminished role in the upcoming season is high, which gives the Knicks leverage in negotiations. His level of production could be the difference in getting a max deal.

Even though New York knows his value, it’s understandable that they want to keep all of the talent on the roster. If Randle plays in a smaller role and doesn’t win much, moving to another team that pays him to be a second option might be a better fit for Randle’s career and quality of production. This upcoming season will be historic for the Knicks, but the dominoes will fall.