Great Report : Knicks just announced retirement due to medical issues……
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Jon Conahan Updated Sep 12, 2024 at 12:15pmNew York Knicks, Julius Randle, Isaiah Stewart GettyJulius Randle dribbling
The New York Knicks have an impressive roster on paper with very few holes. Still, they’re lacking at the center position, an area they might need to improve before the season starts. The Knicks could run into an issue with Mitchell Robinson’s injury history and Precious Achiuwa being undersized.
Eric Pincus of Bleacher Report explored one “dream” trade target for every NBA team, listing Isaiah Stewart for the Knicks. However, Pincus wrote that Julius Randle could be a part of a potential trade, which would bring questions for the Knicks.
“The Knicks accomplished much this summer by adding Mikal Bridges via trade with the Brooklyn Nets. OG Anunoby re-signed, and Jalen Brunson extended,” Pincus wrote on September 12. “However, the team lost Isaiah Hartenstein and has a hole at the center position with Mitchell Robinson struggling to stay healthy and Precious Achiuwa a bit undersized (6’8”).
“The team previously talked to the Utah Jazz about Kessler but didn’t find common ground. He’s a viable option, but Isaiah Stewart II of the Detroit Pistons may be a natural fit. He’s about the same height as Achiuwa but has a bigger body. Stewart has a team-friendly multiyear contract, has improved his outside shot and could be part of the return if the Knicks send out Randle.”
Julius Randle Contract Update
Randle is extension-eligible but hasn’t landed a new deal with the New York Knicks. With the new apron rules, the Knicks could explore all options to better position themselves for the future.
On an episode of the “Lowe Post,” ESPN’s Zach Lowe said that he doesn’t “expect” Randle to get an extension.
The Knicks still face several major decisions this off-season regarding player extensions and potential acquisitions, particularly in finding a center to support Mitchell Robinson. Newly acquired forward Mikal Bridges becomes eligible for a four-year, $109.4 million extension on October 1, but he’s not the only player looking for a new contract in the near future.
Julius Randle’s Contract Situation
Former All-NBA power forward Julius Randle is entering the final year of his contract, with a player option for the 2025–26 season worth $30.9 million. However, given the current market and rising player salaries, Randle could opt to decline that option in search of a deal that pays him over $35 million per year. He’s set to count $28.9 million against the cap this upcoming season, following shoulder surgery that limited him to 46 appearances last season.
The Knicks are also juggling several big financial commitments, and with Jalen Brunson taking a $113 million discount to join the team, they may be more focused on extending Bridges after trading significant assets to acquire him. Randle has undoubtedly earned the respect of the front office, having overcome inconsistencies in previous years to become a key player. However, the Knicks will need to balance honoring Randle’s contributions with protecting their long-term financial flexibility.
If Randle performs at an elite level and helps the Knicks contend for a championship, he could command a far higher price tag in free agency. For now, the Knicks seem content to wait and see how Randle performs, leaving the possibility of an extension open but not guaranteed.