New York Knicks forward Julius Randle (30). Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports

The Knicks are missing Julius Randle

By Adam Taylor | Last updated 4/28/24

The New York Knicks could potentially take a 3-1 lead when they face the Philadelphia 76ers on Sunday in the Eastern Conference playoffs opening round.

Tom Thibodeau's team has consistently found ways to stifle Philadelphia's offense, especially in the half court. The Knicks have also found ways to generate high-quality offense, both off the dribble and off the catch.

However, according to John Jastremski of SNYTV, the Knicks are missing Julius Randle's secondary scoring. Randle has been shut down for the season due to a shoulder injury.

"You look at this series; they could use that secondary source of scoring," Jastremski said during a recent appearance on SiriusXM NBA Radio. "They got two very off performances from Jalen Brunson. Game one. Game two. Shocking they won both games...You don't have the physicality they would have if Julius Randle was in there. In this series, there's no getting around the fact they miss him."

“They could use that secondary source of scoring.”@john_jastremski tells @BGeltzNBA and @SamMitchellNBA why the #Knicks miss Julius Randle despite the 2-1 series lead. pic.twitter.com/lf9GICu1jh
— SiriusXM NBA Radio (@SiriusXMNBA) April 27, 2024

The Knicks have navigated injury issues throughout the entire season. OG Anunoby's addition to the roster has likely eased the blow of losing Randle for the postseason run, too.

However, Randle is an All-Star. You don't easily replace the type of two-way production he brings to your rotation. Part of the Knicks' early playoff success has been due to Joel Embiid being miles away from 100 percent after recently returning to the Sixers rotation following meniscus surgery.

Randle's return will not be on the cards regardless of how far the Knicks go during the postseason. As such, the Knicks' best chance of success may be next season.

This year will likely be used as the roster gaining valuable postseason experience as a collective. Most contending teams need a deep run before they make the necessary tweaks and emerge as contenders in the following season.

The Knicks are holding their own against the Sixers and could progress into the second round. However, without Randle, their offense lacks the unpredictability and elite secondary scoring punch to be viewed as legitimate contenders.

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