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5 Biggest Knicks questions ahead of rivalry rematch against Heat

By James Ryder

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - MARCH 29: RJ Barrett #9 of the New York Knicks is guarded by Jimmy Butler #22 of the Miami Heat during the fourth quarter of the game at Madison Square Garden on March 29, 2023 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. (Photo by Dustin Satloff/Getty Images)
NEW YORK, NEW YORK - MARCH 29: RJ Barrett #9 of the New York Knicks is guarded by Jimmy Butler #22 of the Miami Heat during the fourth quarter of the game at Madison Square Garden on March 29, 2023 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. (Photo by Dustin Satloff/Getty Images) /
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New York Knicks, Julius Randle
Julius Randle, New York Knicks. (Photo by Brad Penner/USA TODAY Sports) /

How will Julius Randle impact the series?

Julius Randle was slow to impact the series versus the Cavaliers from a scoring standpoint. On one hand, it was understandable since he was coming off of a sprained ankle. On the other, it was very concerning to see him shoot so poorly in several games for the second time in his Knicks playoff career.

Thankfully, Randle was getting the job done in other areas with some smart and decisive passing along with some stand-up defense. Then, the moment we had all been waiting for arrived in Game 5. Randle was bodying his way to the rim at will against the Cavs D, scoring 13 points on 4-of-9 shooting from the field while making five of his six free throw attempts in the first half.

But, just before the halftime buzzer, Randle hurt the same ankle on a close-out and exited the game. The Knicks got the win and won the series, but now New York will have to hold their breath again going into a playoff Game 1 unsure if their two-time All-Star will take the court. Right now, New York is hopeful that Randle will be back for the first contest against Miami. However, if Randle misses any time this series, his absence may be the biggest impact he has on the final outcome.

But how about when Randle does return; how will he impact the series with his play? Well, Miami’s zone defense (more on that later) may be well-equipped for Randle’s game. We have seen Randle struggle in the past when he is surrounded and forced to give up the ball or take difficult shots without turning it over in the process. Granted, Randle seemed to figure it out in Game 5 before his injury against arguably the best defensive team in the playoffs.

At the very least, expect Randle to again be a positive on defense (if he played well against Evan Mobley, then he can definitely handle Kevin Love) as both an isolation and help defender. Randle should also be a valuable playmaker alongside Jalen Brunson and RJ Barrett, who have each moved the ball nicely in the playoffs. As for his offense, it remains to be seen how helpful or hurtful Randle will be and if his ankle will be to blame.

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