Julius Randle's 4-year, $117 million contract extension became official on Friday for he and the New York Knicks. The franchise opted to get the deal done now instead of waiting until next offseason where his max offer would've cost much more. Randle gets the assurance now while the Knicks didn't have to pay quite as much; a win-win for both parties.
After a 41-31 season for Tom Thibodeau's club, expectations are high for the Knicks entering next season. On Friday, Randle was asked about what he thought for those who say last year was a fluke for him personally. Let's just say Randle didn't mince his words.
What does Julius Randle say to people that think last year was a fluke?
"[They] don't know s–t about me. You think that, have fun with that take" pic.twitter.com/jJt6y7QLLn
— Knicks Videos (@sny_knicks) August 27, 2021
Randle's numbers last year were off the charts compared to his first six years in the league. The all-pro for the Knicks averaged a career high in points (24.1), rebounds (10.2), assists (6.0) and steals (0.9) last year.
Two years ago Randle shot 27% from three-point range. Three years ago it was 34%. Last year he shot 41% from the land beyond on a career high attempts per game from the perimeter (5.5). The numbers across the board were jaw dropping from Randle and he is convinced it wasn't an outlier season or, a fluke.
With Randle in the fold for the long run alongside R.J. Barrett and with the free agency adds in Kemba Walker and Evan Fournier, the Knicks are looking to keep their foot on the accelerator and take the next step next season. It would start with not only getting to the playoffs, but finding a way to advance after the Atlanta Hawks took them out in five games last season.
Julius Randle sounds as motivated as ever to make sure things will be on the up and up at Madison Square Garden for quite some time.
We stay here. Let’s work, @J30_RANDLE! #NewYorkForever pic.twitter.com/p7EJzYFNoM
— NEW YORK KNICKS (@nyknicks) August 27, 2021
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