Julius Randle’s future with the New York Knicks is uncertain right now. With a big contract offer and rumors about him being a top trade option, things could go many ways.
ESPN’s Brian Windhorst believes Randle’s current deal makes him a valuable trade asset, which could lead the Knicks to consider trading him to strengthen their team.
Let’s break down what’s happening and why Randle’s name keeps popping up in trade talks.
- According to ESPN’s Brian Windhorst, Julius Randle’s $29 million salary makes him an attractive trade option for the Knicks.
- Randle’s performance has outgrown his current contract, and he’s likely to explore free agency for a bigger deal next year.
- The Knicks may trade Randle to fill roster gaps and stay competitive in a tough Eastern Conference.
Julius Randle’s Contract Makes Him a Prime Trade Piece
The New York Knicks are facing a big decision with their All-Star power forward, Julius Randle.
He’s eligible for a big extension—four years worth $181.5 million—but after Jalen Brunson’s team-friendly deal, Randle might need to take a pay cut to keep the Knicks competitive.
But that’s not a guarantee, so the Knicks might be thinking about their options.
ESPN analyst Brian Windhorst believes Julius Randle is “extraordinarily tradeable.” But why might that be?
Because of his current four-year, $117 million contract, Randle’s salary of $29 million a year is seen as a great deal for what he brings to the team.
Also, Randle has a player option for $31 million next summer, which he’ll likely decline, making him a free agent.
“Because of that $29M salary, he’s extremely tradeable,” Windhorst said.
So, if they decide to pursue that path, the Knicks could trade Randle, acquire some draft picks, and still manage their salary cap smartly.
Can the Knicks Keep Randle Long-Term?
Randle is undoubtedly one of the most important players in the Knicks’ rise in recent years.
Despite missing part of last season due to a shoulder injury, his numbers were impressive—he averaged 24 points, 9.2 rebounds, and 5 assists.
Even though the Knicks made it to the second round of the playoffs without him, fans can’t help but wonder if they would’ve gone further with Randle in the lineup.
While Randle has helped turn the Knicks into a playoff contender, the team still has some gaps to fill, especially in the center position.
With Isaiah Hartenstein leaving for Oklahoma City, the Knicks only have Mitchell Robinson as their main big man.
So far, they haven’t been able to find another center in free agency, which could push them to explore trades.
If the Knicks want to land a big player without losing too many draft picks, Randle could be part of a trade package that helps them improve.
Right now, the Knicks aren’t actively trying to trade Randle, but things could change as the season goes on and his role becomes clearer.
For the time being, the team is focused on getting the most out of their current roster and chasing a championship.
Will Trading Randle Make The Knicks Weaker?
A big question for Knicks fans is whether trading Randle would weaken the team.
The Knicks have one of the best starting lineups in the NBA, with Jalen Brunson, Donte DiVincenzo, Mikal Bridges, Julius Randle, and Mitchell Robinson covering all positions.
But losing Randle could be risky with tough teams like the Celtics and 76ers in the Eastern Conference.
At this point, the Knicks have built a strong core, including stars like Brunson, OG Anunoby, and Mikal Bridges.
If Randle fits well with this group, the team could be one of the best in the East. But if they feel Randle doesn’t mesh as well, trading him might help them get stronger in positions where they’re weaker, especially at the center.
Windhorst also said that Randle’s $29 million contract and a couple of draft picks could help the Knicks trade for another star player.
“The Knicks do still have a couple of first-round picks they can move,” he added, which means they could use Randle and these picks to get someone who fits better with their lineup.
What’s Next for Julius Randle and the Knicks?
Randle’s future with the Knicks depends on his contract and how well he fits into the team’s plans. If he opts out of his contract next year, the Knicks might look to trade him rather than lose him in free agency.
Although, they could choose to extend his contract and keep him in the lineup.
However, with big contracts already given to players like Brunson and Anunoby, the Knicks must be careful about how much money they commit to Randle.
Windhorst mentioned that Randle has played well enough to deserve a bigger contract.
If he hits free agency, he’ll probably be looking for a pay raise that the Knicks may not be able to afford, especially with other players needing new deals soon.
Randle has been a huge part of the Knicks’ success, but the team might decide that trading him for players who better fit their future could be the right move.
As the season progresses and rumors heat up, Randle will be a player to watch.
While the Knicks haven’t made any moves yet, Randle’s performance and upcoming contract decisions will determine whether he stays or is traded to another team soon.
