This upcoming season will be a big one for Julius Randle. The fourth-year Los Angeles Lakers forward doesn’t figure to be offered an extension by the team, who are looking to open up a large amount of cap space to chase marquee free agents next offseason.

With his rookie deal set to expire next summer, Randle’s performance this season could make or break his chances of landing a big deal. But according to ClutchPoints' Ryan Ward, Randle doesn’t feel his contract status has changed the mindset he plays with.

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Julius Randle was one of the Lakers’ more notable performers in what was a largely disappointing preseason campaign. The power forward averaged 13 points, 7.4 rebounds, and 1.8 steals in five games, and had 17 points, 10 boards, and three steals in their lone preseason win against the Sacramento Kings. He also felt the need to call out his teammates’ defensive effort following a bad loss to the Denver Nuggets.

Randle himself has some things to work on defensively. If he really does feel he always needs to prove himself, then he’ll need to prioritize his competence on that end of the floor, which could be a crucial factor in terms of how much he gets on his next contract.