New York Knicks forward Julius Randle, who has been sidelined since January 27 due to a dislocated shoulder, revealed on Wednesday that the possibility of surgery has not been ruled out. Randle emphasized that the decision will depend on the necessary steps and the overall process.
While focused on avoiding surgery and making a swift return to the court, Randle acknowledged that he’s considering various opinions on the matter.
Having recognized the dislocation immediately when it occurred, Randle has been engaged in film study with coach Tom Thibodeau during his absence, aiming to enhance his skills and apply them when he’s back on the court.
Despite uncertainties about the need for surgery, the Knicks remain optimistic about Randle’s progress and potential return this season, taking a cautious, step-by-step approach to his recovery.
“Right now, he’s preparing to come back to play,” said Thibodeau. “He’s putting a lot into it, he looks good, he’s got a great spirit about him, he’s working out twice a day. So all things are good right now.”
The previous day, Thibodeau informed reporters that Randle is “meeting all the markers” and “moving around pretty good,” but he hasn’t received clearance to practice yet.
In the current season, Randle has maintained an average of 24 points, 9.2 rebounds, and 5.0 assists in 46 games. Despite being selected for his third All-Star appearance, he couldn’t participate due to the injury.
New York faced challenges before the All-Star break, losing four consecutive games and five of six, largely due to a severely depleted lineup. The Knicks will continue to miss their entire starting frontcourt – OG Anunoby, Randle, and Mitchell Robinson – when they play against the Philadelphia 76ers on Thursday.
However, Bojan Bogdanovic, Isaiah Hartenstein, and Donte DiVincenzo are expected to return to the lineup.
With a season record of 33-22, the Knicks currently hold the fourth position in the Eastern Conference, holding a slim half-game lead over the fifth-place Sixers. They rank eighth in the NBA in offensive rating, ninth in defensive rating, and sixth in net rating.
The lineup featuring Jalen Brunson, DiVincenzo, Anunoby, Randle, and Hartenstein has demonstrated a strong performance, outscoring opponents by 16.6 points per 100 possessions in the 10 games they’ve played together, amassing a total of 180 minutes on the court.
