It's been a downright disappointing season for the New York Knicks after such a promising 2020-21. Currently in 12th place, they're already out of contention for the play-in, which means it makes zero sense to keep playing their starters if not at 100% health.
That being said, head coach Tom Thibodeau has ruled out Julius Randle for the remainder of the campaign due to a quadriceps injury.
Tom Thibodeau said Julius Randle is out for tomorrow’s game in Orlando, too, and “most likely will be out the rest of the way."
— Fred Katz (@FredKatz) April 2, 2022
The Knicks forward has found his name in the rumor mill lately, but Randle himself fired back at speculation that he requested a trade earlier this season. There's no question the 27-year-old isn't playing at the same level as last year when he averaged 24.1 points per game. His numbers have certainly taken a step back this time around though, posting a stat line of 20.1 points, 9.9 rebounds, and 5.5 assists. Still respectable, but the Knicks expect more out of him.
A lot of the blame is landing on Randle's shoulders, which isn't necessarily fair. This team has dealt with a flurry of injuries as well, most notably Derrick Rose missing almost the entire campaign. Kemba Walker also struggled to fit in with the Knicks and ultimately stopped playing in February.
Julius Randle is under contract in New York until 2026, but regardless, it'll be interesting to see what happens this summer in regards to his future. Perhaps, some teams could come calling to see his availability.