Knicks News: James Dolan Urged by NY Millionaire Not to Trade Julius Randle With Harsh Jalen Brunson Reminder

Just days before the training camp, the shuffling of rosters continues with great vigor. As expected, the Knicks have also joined the party to find the best fit. Now revolving around Jalen Brunson, the Knickerbockers are trying everything to facilitate smooth gameplay from the 28-year-old point guard. This also means they’re willing to trade Julius Randle. News has escaped from the rumor mills that the Knicks are reconsidering his contract. Simply put, the NY-based team might not include the hooper in the 2024-25 season. Shocking!

Rapper, Joe Budden has an opposing opinion. He believes that besides OG Anunoby and Mike Bridges, Brunson would need Julius Randle‘s presence on the court. He’s been a crucial member of the Knicks even when the team was on shaky ground. And now that they’re gradually getting in shape, it would be unfair to scrape him off. Moreover, with Brunson’s ‘team-friendly’ deal, the team will have a large salary slot that they could fill by trading away Randle for more immediate help. But, with a brutal reminder rubbed on James Dolan & Co., what will be the next move?

Joe Budden reminded everyone on the Club 520 Podcast, “You need somebody else. You about to tell me that’s Bridges? But you need somebody else that’s gonna put the ball on the floor and get you a bucket. And what value are you going to get back for him (Julius Randle)?” The power forward knows how to reshape the game in a manner that brings points to the Knicks’ tally. However, in Randle’s absence from the games, because of his shoulder injury, everyone saw how Jalen Brunson & Co. barely struggled.

But despite his honest efforts, the New York Knicks are ready to send away a player with an average of 24 points. You may say, this is also a part of team development, but wouldn’t be at the risk of team imbalance. Let’s say, the Knicks truly replace Julius Randle, wouldn’t it be difficult in the few games with a new player taking his place? Logically speaking, this POV does make sense!

Will the Knicks be better off without Julius Randle?

After spending multiple seasons rebuilding and tinkering with the foundations, the Knicks spent this summer locking it down for the long term and building for a championship run. Tom Thibodeau and Jalen Brunson extended their contracts, re-signed OG Anunoby, and added Mikal Bridges to complete the Villanova core. However, the player who brought New York its first playoff in decades has been sidelined. Yes, it’s Julius Randle. His pros overwhelm the cons and therefore he is an important member of the Knicks.

In complete honesty, New York didn’t get worse when Randle was benched because of his dislocated shoulder last season. More importantly, from within the squad, no one wants to believe that the team would be better off with Julius. Mostly, the naysayers think, given his injury records and postseason melt-downs of the 2021-22 season, are good enough reasons for replacement. Moreover, bringing in new members will add a fresh perspective and maybe enhance the overall performance.

Since the news of Randle’s replacement emerged teams like the LA Clippers and Atlanta Hawks are swarming him. Both teams might have a spot for the 3x NBA All-Star. Moreover, someone as pivotal as Julius Randle will add value to any team that chooses him. And maybe within the next few days, we might get to know what the Knicks have ultimately decided. However, as most fans and analysts believe, the team needs Randle for further development. Jalen Brunson needs the 29-year-old on the court when he’s playing.

What the future holds remains a mystery. Therefore, it’s hard to predict whether Julius Randle will be retained or let go. More importantly, will James Dolan listen to the fans or look at his choices considering the greater good of the New York Knicks? Who knows?

Before you go, remember to check out this crossover between BG12 and Georgia Bulldogs star Silas Demary Jr.