Image Source: Charles Wenzelberg
[Saba Sports News] Julius Randle has been sidelined for over two months, and his return timeline remains uncertain. NBA insider Shams Charania provided an update on the New York Knicks forward’s condition on FanDuel TV’s “Run It Back,” describing Randle’s situation as particularly troubling. Since January 27th, Randle, who has been dealing with a dislocated shoulder, hasn’t progressed beyond controlled contact in his rehabilitation. Compared to teammate OG Anunoby, who is recovering from an elbow injury, Randle’s comeback seems less certain at this stage.
This update is disheartening for Knicks fans, especially considering Randle’s significant contributions of 24.0 points, 9.2 rebounds, and 5.0 assists per game prior to his injury. With the regular season concluding in under two weeks, and the playoffs set to begin in about three weeks (including the play-in tournament period for other teams), Randle’s slow recovery is a concern.
In Randle’s absence, the Knicks, currently the 4th seed, have adapted by utilizing Josh Hart in a small-ball starting role, with Precious Achiuwa and Bojan Bogdanovic as key bench players. Although the team welcomed Mitchell Robinson back from an extended ankle injury, the uncertain status of Randle and Anunoby adds to the challenges New York faces as the playoffs approach.