NBA Rumors: Knicks' Julius Randle Available For Right Price

 

Julius Randle exploded into a cornerstone of the New York Knicks last season. This year? Not so much. His play and his numbers have plummeted. The MVP talk of 2021 is a distant memory. Now comes word that the Knicks are willing to trade their supposed cornerstone if the price is right. 

Knicks insider Ian Begley says that "One team in touch with a member of the Knicks recently came away with the impression that Julius Randle would be available for the right return.."

👀 @IanBegley:
"..1 team in touch with a member of the Knicks recently came away with the impression that Julius Randle would be available for the right return.."
Begley bombs are often understated, as here...1st report I've seen Randle may be available pic.twitter.com/WNEeacUJvN

— New York Basketball (@NBA_NewYork) January 27, 2022

Call it a Begley bomb. He goes on to say that the news about Randle "shouldn't be a surprise, because this team needs to upgrade its roster in any way they can if they want to salvage the season... Most of the roster is on the table."

The 27-year-old Randle signed a 4-year, $117M contract extension in the offseason. This year, his scoring is down 5 1/2 points a game, from 24 to 18.7, while his 3-point shooting is down over 10% (41% to 30.7%). 

He hasn't handled it all very well, blasting critics with expletive-laced tirades, and getting mercilessly booed by fans at MSG. 

And the Knicks' fortunes have mirrored Randle's, as last year's No. 4 playoff seed in the East is down to 11st spot, at 23-26.

Photo Credit: Jon Durr-USA TODAY Sports