NBA
Why isn’t Knicks’ Julius Randle playing against Hornets? When will he return?
With the team from Charlotte next up for the New York franchise, the plan is to maintain the winning streak no matter who is on the court.
How many times have you heard: ‘I’ve got good news and bad news for you’? Well, it feels a little bit like that for fans of the Knicks today, who were awaiting an update on one of their key men.
Sitting fourth in the NBA’s Eastern Conference (29-17), the New York team is hoping that one of its stars, Julius Randle, won’t be out for too long, after news emerged that he would be sidelined for a few weeks due to a dislocated right shoulder, as reported by The Athletic on Monday. Fortunately for everyone involved, initial assessments from the forward’s MRI indicated no significant damage, which has slightly shortened the expected duration of his absence, which some suggested could be months.
What happened to Knicks’ Randle?
Randle’s injury occurred during the team’s recent victory over the Heat (125-109), where he left the game in the fourth quarter after colliding with Miami’s Jaime Jaquez Jr. Despite the setback, the MRI results provide some relief, showing no major issues.
Randle, aged 29, had contributed 19 points and nine rebounds in the game, maintaining impressive season averages in points, rebounds, and assists. His absence will undoubtedly be felt, but the Knicks and their fans can take solace in the positive news about the extent of his injury.
When will Randle return for the Knicks?
Next up for Tom Thibodeau’s team is a trip to the Spectrum Center in Charlotte and despite the absence of their influential power forward they’ll look to extend the streak to seven against a Hornets group struggling to find its sting often enough. With a record of 10-34, and three straight defeats, this looks like a tough ask for the home team.
Following that that Knicks have games scheduled against the Jazz, Pacers, Lakers, Grizzlies, Mavericks, Pacers again, Rockets and the Magic. By the time the 76ers come around on 23 February, hopes will be that Randle will be closer to getting back on court, although the Knicks won’t want to force him back too early. There’s still plenty of ball to play in the push for the playoffs in April.