The New York Knicks are going to need a small miracle to occur to qualify for the NBA Play-In Tournament, let alone get a playoff spot. Even if they can go on a late-season run and pull it off, this is a roster that should be seeing some sizable changes this offseason.
The Knicks have taken a big step back in the second year under Tom Thibodeau, which has led to a less than desirable season.
New York is currently 26-38, sitting in 12th place in the Eastern Conference and 5.5 games behind the 10th place Atlanta Hawks for the final spot in the Play-In Tournament.
There is no one to blame but themselves, as the Knicks have shot themselves in the foot constantly. On a seemingly nightly basis, they reset the standard of the worst loss of the season.
LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Why Some Inside Knicks Hold “Concern” About Julius Randle
Had they been able to hold onto some of the 20+ point leads they have blown this season, the tone of the conversation would be totally different surrounding the team.
Alas, you ultimately are what your record says you are and the Knicks’ record says they are not a very good team.
LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Why Some Inside Knicks Hold “Concern” About Julius Randle
At the center of that is Julius Randle. Randle had a career season during the 2020-21 campaign which resulted in an All-Star nomination and spot on the All-NBA Second Team. But, he has regressed to the mean this season, which is a big reason for the team’s struggles.
There was some chatter that the team could look to trade Randle as the organization’s impression of him was changing. Here are three reasons that the New York Knicks should look to move on from Randle sooner than later.
