Julius Randle Injury Update: Knicks forward gives mixed response on recovery
New York Knicks power forward Julius Randle provided a mixed update on his shoulder injury. The 29-year-old suffered a dislocated shoulder in January and later underwent season-ending surgery. He was slated to be re-evaluated in five months, but his latest take was not necessarily promising.
In a recent post on X/Twitter, Randle was asked how his shoulder was and whether he would be ready for the training camp.
He responded:
"Good and we'll see."
Randle is eligible for an extension with New York. The new framework of his Knicks deal could see him make $181.5 million over four years. The 2024 All-Star proved to be the perfect second option behind Jalen Brunson as he averaged 24.0 points, 9.2 rebounds and 5.0 assists, earning his third All-Star nod this past season.
Per The Athletic's Fred Katz, Randle's situation isn't straightforward with questions about his fit in the new-look roster.
"I like where I am at": Julius Randle provided a more positive update on his shoulder in May
Speaking on "NBA Unplugged" in May earlier this year, Randle offered a more positive update. He believed his recovery was moving in the right direction:
"I spent two and a half months rehabbing before, so when I came out of shoulder surgery I was recovering pretty fast; all my muscles around my shoulder are strong. So I've been healing up great. Been taking my time. Not in a rush. But I like where I'm at for sure," Randle said.
The injury-riddled Knicks struggled in the playoffs, and Randle's absence came as a major blow. They did make the conference semifinals but went down to the Indiana Pacers in Game 7. The team sprung for Mikal Bridges from the Brooklyn Nets by sacrificing five picks in free agency.
A healthy version of Randle makes the Knicks bonafide playoff contenders, capable of making a deep run. With their star PG Jalen Brunson in prime form, the team could be one to watch out for next season.
With the latest developments, it remains to be seen if Julius Randle will suit up on Oct. 25 against the Pacers at 7:30 p.m. ET at Madison Square Garden.