Can the New York Knicks go on a successful playoff run without Julius Randle?


The New York Knicks are in the midst of their final six regular season games. The team has struggled while playing undermanned without Allstar Julius Randle and 3&D wing Og Anunoby. The playing undermanned theme will continue in the upcoming NBA playoffs. The New York Knicks recently announced season ending shoulder surgery for All Star Julius Randle. Randle had been out since late January and was hoping to return before the regular season’s end. Several Knick role players have stepped up in Randle’s absense including Donte Divincenzo, Josh Hart, Miles McBride and Isiah Hardenstein. The disappointing Randle news changes the playoff ceiling for the current New York Knicks team. They were expected to be playoff contenders prior to Randle’s January injury. The Knicks have also missed Og Anunoby, who had played just 3 games since returning from elbow surgery. The Knicks will need Anunoby back for the upcoming playoffs. He is not a high volume scorer like Randle but his three point shooting and defense is desperately needed. The Knicks won a first round playoff series last year and hoped to take the next step in 2024. All Star Jalen Brunson has elevated his game since last year’s playoff run. Can Brunson’s supporting cast follow him as he leads the Knicks in a first round playoff series? Will the first round impact the Knicks offseason? The Knicks will play the Chicago Bulls, Milwaukee Bucks, Boston Celtics and Brooklyn Nets before begining the 2024 NBA playoffs.

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