The New York Knicks are banking on a lot of returns such that they can make a deep push in the NBA Playoffs. The stars out of Villanova have been taking over in the last few weeks with Jalen Brunson taking the lead but they need help in their frontcourt moving forward. One person they will have to move without is Julius Randle. The Knicks star was finally ruled out for the season despite some optimistic reports from journalists and Coach Tom Thibodeau.
Thibs clarifies the situation
Knicks fans were very confused about the report of Julius Randle being ruled out due to needing a procedure. It was said that the star forward was foregoing surgery to attempt to make a comeback to the Knicks. However, Julius Randle already knew that he needed surgery a few weeks back because of absorbing contact on his shoulder. Lately, Coach Tom Thibodeau then stressed that his star has not taken any contact.
The Knicks' head honcho had to clear the air, via Fred Katz of The Athletic.
“The thing is like: he was going through, and this is where we talked about he was taking contact, but taking controlled contact. It was with pads, right? And so, some days felt better than others. Then, in the end, he had to trust his gut, that he could play the way that he plays, which is very physical and aggressive with his shoulder. So, if he can't use his shoulder, he can't play,” he said about Julius Randle's recovery regimen before being ruled out.
Obviously, the Jalen Brunson and Tom Thibodeau-led Knicks wanted Julius Randle to keep playing until the postseason. While feelings might be at a low, all they could really do is support him. For the Thibodeau, he has to make do with the members of the roster who can play.
“So, we're going to support him. It's disappointing, he was having a monster year. So now, just have the surgery, do the rehab, and be ready for next year. The guys that are here, just keep doing what we're doing. Josh has stepped in and played great. Precious has really played well for us. Hopefully, we get OG back soon, and then we go from here,” Thibs declared.
Knicks star's big year faces a screeching halt
Before going down because of his shoulder pain, Randle was putting up one of the best years of his career. He played 46 minutes with the Knicks and had a 35-minute average playing time. This saw him knock down his shots at a very efficient 47.2% from the field to record 24 points on a nightly basis. These numbers could have gotten higher because of the help they got from OG Anunoby, Josh Hart, and Donte DiVincenzo. However, it was just not fate. After an insane run in January and being named an All-Star in February, his right shoulder already started to act up.
Hopefully, the Knicks are able to bring a lot of glory during his postseason run despite his absence from the squad.
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