Report in English: Julius Randle Gains Strong Support from Knicks
In a twist on the Garth Brooks scenario, Julius Randle enjoys significant backing from influential figures within the New York Knicks’ front office.
Amid the frenzy surrounding the Knicks’ Villanova-related news—such as trading for Mikal Bridges and securing a discounted extension for Jalen Brunson—Randle has managed to navigate his offseason relatively undisturbed, despite dealing with injury recovery and the prospect of his own contract extension looming.
As the Knicks aim to balance flashy spending with staying clear of the restrictive second apron, questions arise about Julius Randle’s future with the team. According to Fred Katz of The Athletic, Randle has a significant supporter within the Knicks’ front office: team owner James Dolan.
“James Dolan has been a huge fan of Julius Randle for years,” Katz told Jonathan Macri on the popular web channel Knicks Film School. “Dolan famously admires Randle, partly because the fan base was skeptical of him. Dolan embraced Randle as his guy.”
“Dolan loves Randle, appreciates that he chose New York, enjoys his style of play, and there’s no conflict with ownership or management. Randle is highly respected within the organization.”
Randle is entering the second-to-last year of his four-year, $117 million contract and is eligible for an extension in August. He has delivered impressive performances, earning consecutive All-Star selections and averaging 24.7 points and 9.7 rebounds per game.
However, injuries have hindered his otherwise strong performance in New York: an ankle injury affected his 2023 postseason, and he has been sidelined since late January due to a shoulder issue, missing all 13 of the Knicks’ playoff games.
For now, Randle continues to hold his spot in the Knicks’ starting lineup, which recently awarded a nine-figure extension to December acquisition OG Anunoby. Randle is expected to replace Josh Hart, who had done a commendable job filling in during Randle’s absence due to injury.
Dolan’s support isn’t Randle’s only ally within the front office. After a brief stint with William Morris Endeavor, Randle reverted to having Aaron Mintz of Creative Artists Agency, the agency long managed by current Knicks president Leon Rose, represent him once again.
