The New York Knicks appear to be done making blockbuster trades for now, as The Athletic’s Fred Katz reports that he has “absolutely no indication that the Knicks are trying to trade” Julius Randle (h/t KnicksMuse). “None whatsoever,” the insider emphasizes
Knicks Standing Pat On Could-Be Blockbuster Julius Randle Trade
The Knicks probably aren’t so transparent with their offseason plans that they’re a completely open book. Unlike Chicago Bulls executive vice president Arturas Karnisovas or Denver Nuggets general manager Calvin Booth, Knicks president Leon Rose has kept his cards close to the vest. That being said, sourced reports are always to be taken with a grain of salt.
Nonetheless, Katz’s reputation was earned, not given. As a result, it’s likely that New York isn’t shopping Randle. They might be open to listen to proposals for the three-time All-Star since motivated teams can make unbelievable deals. Unironically, the Knicks showed this when they traded Mikal Bridges to the Brooklyn Nets for five first-round picks. But what about New York putting out feelers to see what Randle could bring in? The ship has either sailed or is anchored in the Atlantic Ocean.
Certainly, Knicks head coach Tom Thibodeau is a defensive genius who may help him improve. However, the couple has been together in New York since 2020-21. If he hasn’t taken his defensive responsibilities seriously enough already, expecting him to do so in the future is a recipe for disappointment. As the Knicks look for a center, the door for Randle’s possible departure grows even wider. What Are Their Trading Options? It was only a few months ago that big men like Cleveland Cavaliers center Jarrett Allen were popular trade targets. Cleveland appears to be leaning towards retaining the 26-year-old. However, the Cavs have been undecided about whether to keep Allen for several seasons.
