4 Bold predictions for the New York Knicks’ offseason
1. Julius Randle will be mentioned in trade talks
Following yet another disappointing playoff run, fans wouldn’t be surprised to see the Knicks front office include Julius Randle in trade talks this offseason. His regular season play was incredible, but this is the second playoff run in three seasons in which Randle has played terribly, and in today’s NBA that’s unacceptable.
It’s not just that Randle has been bad, his complete lack of effort on defense and poor decision-making with the ball in his hands almost make him a detriment to the team come playoff time.
Who knows what Randle’s value would be on the open market? However, even if the Knicks can simply get a power forward or wing who is a much better fit in return and is cheaper, it would likely be worth it. For example, a sign and trade for a player like Cam Johnson, or dare I say, Kristaps Porzingis barring that he accepts his player option, could be very beneficial.
Unless Randle pulls it all together next season and the front office is willing to bank on that, it may simply be best for him to go. Replacing his “production” may not be easy, but the fit and defense another player could bring would be a big upgrade on its own.
