Julius Randle’s future with the New York Knicks is uncertain at the moment. With a large contract offer and rumors that he’s a prime trade option, things could go in any number of directions.
ESPN’s Brian Windhorst believes Randle’s current contract makes him a valuable trade asset, which could lead the Knicks to consider trading him to bolster their roster.
Let’s break down what’s going on and why Randle’s name continues to pop up in trade talks.
Key takeaways
- According to ESPN’s Brian Windhorst, Julius Randle’s $29 million salary makes him an attractive trade option for the Knicks.
- Randle’s performance has outpaced his current contract, and he’s likely to explore free agency for a bigger deal next year.
- The Knicks could trade Randle to fill gaps on their roster and remain competitive in a tough Eastern Conference.
Julius Randle’s contract makes him a prime asset
The New York Knicks are facing a major decision regarding their All-Star power forward, Julius Randle.
He’s eligible for a sizeable extension — four years worth $181.5 million — but after Jalen Brunson’s team-friendly deal, Randle may need to take a pay cut to keep the Knicks competitive.
But that’s not a guarantee, so the Knicks might consider their options.
ESPN analyst Brian Windhorst calls Julius Randle “extremely tradeable.” But why?
Given his current four-year, $117 million contract, Randle’s salary of $29 million per year is considered a great deal for what he brings to the team.
Additionally, Randle has a $31 million player option next summer, which he will likely decline, making him a free agent.
“Because of that $29 million salary, he’s extremely tradeable,” said Windhorst.
So if they decide to pursue this path, the Knicks could trade Randle, acquire a few draft picks and manage their salary cap wisely.
Can the Knicks keep Randle long-term?
Randle is arguably one of the most important players in the Knicks’ rise in recent years.
Although he missed part of last season due to a shoulder injuryHis stats were impressive: he averaged 24 points, 9.2 rebounds and 5 assists.
Even though the Knicks reached the second round of the playoffs without him, fans can’t help but wonder if they would have gone further with Randle in the lineup.
While Randle has helped make the Knicks a playoff contender, the team still has holes to fill, particularly at center.
With Isaiah Hartenstein leaving for Oklahoma City, the Knicks are left with Mitchell Robinson as their primary big man.
So far, they haven’t been able to find another center in free agency, which could prompt them to explore trades.
If the Knicks want to land a big player without losing too many draft picks, Randle could be part of a trade package that would help them improve.
As of now, the Knicks aren’t actively trying to trade Randle, but things could change as the season progresses and his role becomes clearer.
For now, the team is focused on making the most of its current squad and chasing a championship.
Will Randle trade weaken the Knicks?
The big question for Knicks fans is whether trading Randle would weaken the team.
The Knicks have one of the best starting lineups in the NBA, with Jalen Brunson, Donte DiVincenzo, Mikal Bridges, Julius Randle and Mitchell Robinson covering every position.
But losing Randle could be risky with tough teams like the Celtics and 76ers in the Eastern Conference.
At this point, the Knicks have built a solid core, including stars like Brunson, OG Anunoby and Mikal Bridges.
If Randle fits well into this group, the team could become one of the best in the East. But if they feel Randle doesn’t fit as well, trading him could help them get stronger at positions where they’re weaker, especially center.
Windhorst also said Randle’s $29 million contract and a couple of draft picks could help the Knicks trade for another star player.
“The Knicks still have a few first-round picks they can trade,” he added, meaning they could use Randle and those picks to get someone who better fits their roster.
What’s next for Julius Randle and the Knicks?
Randle’s future with the Knicks depends on his contract and how he fits into the team’s plans. If he decides to opt out of his contract next year, the Knicks could consider trading him rather than losing him in free agency.
However, they could choose to extend his contract and keep him in the lineup.
However, with big contracts already handed to players like Brunson and Anunoby, the Knicks need to be careful about how much money they commit to Randle.
Windhorst said Randle played well enough to merit a bigger contract.
If he becomes a free agent, he will likely seek a pay raise that the Knicks may not be able to afford, especially since other players will soon need new contracts.
Randle has played a major role in the Knicks’ success, but the team could decide that trading him for players who better fit their future could be the right move.
As the season progresses and rumors continue to mount, Randle will be a player to watch.
While the Knicks have yet to make any moves, Randle’s performance and upcoming contract decisions will determine whether he stays or is soon traded to another team.