The New York Knicks hold a 2-4 after losing their first of the NBA In-Season Tournament qualification slate. It has been an inconsistent season for the Knicks up to this point. Star Julius Randle recently commented on New York’s struggles, revealing a possible reason for their underperformance.

“Spacing, everything is just pretty packed in. We’re working really hard for everything,” Randle said, via Ian Begley of SNY. “We’re just looking at a lot of bodies out there whenever we’re catching the ball. … so we’ve just got to figure out a way to open it up a little bit.”

Spacing is a pivotal part of basketball. It is difficult to find open shots if spacing isn’t properly utilized. The Knicks should be able to figure this out as the season continues on.

Issues such as this tend to arise early in the year. It’s better now as compared to during the playoffs though. Still, New York would obviously like to start performing better as soon as possible.

Julius Randle made the All-Star team in 2022-23 but has struggled mightily so far this season. He is averaging just 13.7 points per game across six contests. His efficiency is especially concerning, as Randle is shooting just 27.1 percent from the field and 22.5 percent from beyond the arc.

NBA NEWS & RUMORS: Julius Randle, New York Knicks Updates

Spacing may be the primary issue for Randle. It also could simply be an early-season slump.

Randle will likely pick up his shooting and find his consistency soon. Again, the Knicks have only played five games up to this point. All it will require is one efficient performance for Randle’s numbers to get back on track.

NBA NEWS & RUMORS: Julius Randle, New York Knicks Updates

The Knicks will kick off the NBA In-Season Tournament on Friday against the Milwaukee Bucks at 7:30 PM EST in what promises to be a competitive affair between a pair of Eastern Conference rivals.