How a hot start can propel Julius Randle back to All-Star status

We all desperately want Julius Randle to be an NBA All-Star again. The NBA is better when the New York Knicks are playing well, and it’s an even better feeling when a Knickerbocker punches his ticket to the All-Star game.  After a disappointing season, Randle can start his All-Star campaign on opening night.

Julius Randle should have a good start to the season

Randle will most likely be matched up against Brandon Clarke when the Knicks face the Grizzlies on opening night. Coming off a good postseason, Clarke’s defensive skills will make it a tough night for Randle. Still, it won’t be easy for the fourth-year player, as Randle has been working on his game.

Last year when these teams met twice, Randle played well in both games against Clarke and Jaren Jackson Jr.  He averaged 27 points and 12 rebounds in the two losses. If Randle can repeat this performance, he will be well on his way to All-Star weekend.

Two nights later, Randle meets Marvin Bagley III. Another young player, Bagley III just got to Detroit after being traded from Sacramento. Randle gets to school a young player who hasn’t quite found his footing in the league. Last year, they met once when Bagley III arrived in Detroit.  Bagley III got the best of Randle with 27 points and seven rebounds while Randle and the Knicks got the win. Randle will be looking to return the favor.

The number one pick in the NBA Draft may get his welcome to the NBA moment from Randle.  Paolo Banchero and the Orlando Magic are the third game on the schedule. He was the number one pick for a reason, and Julius will have his hands full defending the Duke product. Banchero will have his hands full defending Randle as well. He averaged 21 points and 10 rebounds in three games against the Orlando Magic last year. If Randle dominates the Rookie, critics will say he is back.

Next, Randle sees P.J. Washington of the Charlotte Hornets. I’m sure this matchup will be fun for the two former University of Kentucky Wildcats. With Randle being five years older, he can show the young forward a thing or two. Last year, Randle outperformed Washington in the three times they played against each other. He’ll look to continue the streak.

What better way to make a case for the All-Star team than dominating the two-time NBA MVP?  To end his first week this season, Julius Randle travels to see Giannis Antetokounmpo. This will be a statement game for Randle as Giannis and the Bucks dominated the Knicks last season. Giannis got the best of Randle in those matchups, exuding his dominance as the East’s top forward.

Hopefully, Randle will play well in all of these matchups, especially this one. After this tough week, he will need the weekend off. If he performs at a high level, his road to All-Star weekend will be easier.