What's Julius Randle's Future with Knicks?

The New York Knicks are as hot as they've been for over a decade. However, All-Star Julius Randle missed the boat due to a shoulder injury that kept him out of the magical 2024 NBA postseason run. Furthermore, the Knicks improved their team by trading for Mikal Bridges via the Brooklyn Nets. How will Randle fare with the improved core of the Knicks?

Randle will turn 30 in November, which could mark the latter part of his prime years. Nonetheless, his current contract allows flexibility for the Knicks and the Dallas, Texas native.

The Knicks forward is on an expiring $28.9 million contract, as the 2025-26 season isn't guaranteed because it is a player-option year. Randle is up for a three-year extension, but reports say such a contract is on the " back burner " for both parties.

On Randle's side, perhaps he wants to make more in free agency as the last massive contract in his NBA career. Conversely, the Knicks could trade Randle at the deadline, rendering a contract extension a hindrance to such a plan.

Randle only played 46 games this past season due to multiple injuries, including a season-ending shoulder surgery. Still, Randle averaged 24 points, five assists, and nine rebounds. However, the All-Star's shooting splits need work, especially to fit the new core of the Knicks.

Knicks head coach Tom Thibodeau explained what Randle's presence means to the team, even on the sidelines.

"It was great to see him. You miss the smile... He's an All-Star and he's an All-NBA player," Thibodeau said. "We've said all season long that we knew we couldn't replace him individually; we had to do it collectively, and that's what makes the group so good."

Related: No Love Lost Between Jalen Brunson, Mark Cuban

Before Jalen Brunson's 2024 postseason scoring explosion, Randle would return to the rotation as the primary option. However, in light of Brunson's 40-point bombs, which put him in Michael Jordan's territory, Randle must fit as the second option on a playoff team aspiring for an NBA championship.

As alluded to earlier, Randle must alleviate Brunson's drives to the rim by finishing on 3-point shots, at least with an average percentage. Last season, Randle shot a mere 31 percent from deep.

According to the public perception, Randle and the Knicks captain appear happy with Brunson's ascension in the shot chart. However, don't be surprised if a trade occurs before the 2025 playoffs, sending Randle elsewhere.