3 Julius Randle trades that the Knicks should consider

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - MARCH 30: Julius Randle #30 of the New York Knicks in action against the Charlotte Hornets at Madison Square Garden on March 30, 2022 in New York City. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Charlotte Hornets defeated the New York Knicks 125-114. (Photo by Mike Stobe/Getty Images)
NEW YORK, NEW YORK - MARCH 30: Julius Randle #30 of the New York Knicks in action against the Charlotte Hornets at Madison Square Garden on March 30, 2022 in New York City. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Charlotte Hornets defeated the New York Knicks 125-114. (Photo by Mike Stobe/Getty Images) /
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Gordon Hayward, Charlotte Hornets. (Photo by Jim Dedmon/USA TODAY Sports) – New York Knicks
Gordon Hayward, Charlotte Hornets. (Photo by Jim Dedmon/USA TODAY Sports) – New York Knicks /

2. Julius Randle for Gordon Hayward and two SRP

With the recent news surrounding Miles Bridges, as it is likely that he may never play again, the Hornets are going to need a new power forward. With that in mind, I believe a good deal that would work for both teams would involve Gordon Hayward, a 2024 second-round pick, and a 2026 second-round pick for Julius Randle.

Not only would New York get a great shooter and all-around offensive threat who doesn’t require the ball in his hands much, but Charlotte would also get the power forward that the team now desperately needs.

While Hayward would likely come off the bench as he isn’t a good fit at power forward, the Knicks could use his shooting. This deal would also clear up minutes for Obi Toppin to become the starting power forward for New York.

As for the Hornets, they’d get a secondary playmaker and ballhandler who also has the potential to go back to being an elite rim runner next to LaMelo Ball.

The Hornets have plenty of wing players with Kelly Oubre and Cody Martin, however, their real gap is at power forward after losing Bridges. While I understand why Charlotte may not want to do this deal, I believe that if Randle goes back to being a primary slasher who could still be a playmaker, he could provide some great play for the team.