The New York Knicks were strong last season, winning 50 games and finishing second in the Eastern Conference. However, they could have been even better if Julius Randle had been healthy.
Randle, who turns 30 in November, was a three-time All-Star with the Knicks and was sorely missed down the stretch of the season.
HoopsHype writer Frank Urbina ranked the top 30 power forwards in the NBA, and Randle came in at No. 7 on the list.
“Randle’s elimination played a significant role in New York’s second-round playoff exit once again, as the former Kentucky star’s absence in points, rebounds and playmaking proved too much for the Knicks against the Pacers in the conference semifinals.” Urbina writes“The big lefty has a quick first step, a very strong left shoulder, good athleticism around the basket, good shooting touch as a floor spacer and underrated vision as a playmaker. He may not be the most efficient outside shooter, but he at least needs to be defended there, opening up driving lanes for Randle to do what he does best: attack the basket.”
The only players on the list ahead of Randle were Lauri Markkanen (Utah Jazz), Karl-Anthony Towns (Minnesota Timberwolves), Pascal Siakam (Indiana Pacers), Paolo Banchero (Orlando Magic), Zion Williamson (New Orleans Pelicans) and Giannis Antetokounmpo (Milwaukee Bucks).
With Randle entering a contract year, if he plays like one of the top seven power forwards in the NBA, not only will he be due a nice payday next summer with free agency looming, but the Knicks continue to be in the upper echelon of the league, and they could very well hoist the Larry O’Brien Trophy at the end of the season.
