Does Julius Randle Have to Prove Himself This Season?

Julius Randle had a disappointing year this past season, as he was out for a considerable amount of time with a shoulder injury. He will be looking to bounce back this season and help the New York Knicks contend for their first title since 1973.

In a recent article by Bleacher Report's Zach Buckley , he picks who he believes is the player on every NBA team that has the most to prove this season, and for the Knicks, he believes that player is Randle.

"Maybe Randle masterfully fills that void and gives New York a real shot at snapping a five-decade-long championship drought. Or perhaps he bogs down the offense and limits the defense," Buckley writes. "He's about as polarizing as a three-time All-Star can be... Few players around the league will face more pressure to perform this season."

The Knicks were able to make it to the second round of the playoffs this past season despite injuries to Randle and a few of their other stars. They will be looking to make it even farther if they can stay healthy as the playoffs approach.

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Randle averaged 24 points, nine rebounds, and five assists per game in the 46 games that he did appear in this past season. While his shooting left a bit to be desired to start the season, he was able to steadily improve it as the year went on.

If Randle can be back to his old self this season and stay healthy, the Knicks could be in great position to contend with the likes of the Boston Celtics in the Eastern Conference.