Knicks: 3 reasons why Julius Randle deserves to be an All-Star Reserve

The All-Star field is as good as it’s ever been, so how does the Knicks’ Julius Randle fit into the mix?

At first glance, Julius Randle is clearly worthy of serious All-Star consideration. However, the conversation becomes much more nuanced when one considers the other Eastern Conference stars jostling for position.

Superstars Joel Embid, Giannis Antetokounmpo, Kevin Durant, Bradley Beal, and Kyrie Irving have already been announced as starters. Other stars like James Harden, Jayson Tatum, Jaylen Brown, and Ben Simmons also feel like locks to make the roster.

This fills nine of the three spots. It also leaves just three spaces for players like Randle, Kris Middleton, Bam Adebayo, Zach LaVine, Gordon Hayward, Trae Young, Domantas Sabonis, Jerami Grant, and Jimmy Butler. Each of these players (and more) have had excellent seasons and is worthy of consideration as well.

As is generally the case during the selection period, the climb toward an appearance in the NBA’s trademark star event is steep. Knicks fans all affirm Randle’s excellent production this season. However, fan bases across the country are also affirming the merit of their own representatives.

Personally, I’d eliminate Young and Grant due to their team’s poor records. I’d also leave off Butler due to missed games due to injuries. Adebayo, a first-time All-Star in 2020, has been rock solid again this season. However, the poor start by his Miami Heat team leaves his spot in question. Voters may recognize Miami’s struggle with injuries and COVID-related absences. But I’d lean toward him being the first player on the outside looking in.

I also give the nod to Sabonis and Randle for two of the final three spots. The last goes to Middleton. Each of these three players boasts a combination of excellent play and good team production. Each has accumulated phenomenal counting stats while leading their respective franchises to a spot in the postseason field.