The New York Knicks” recent loss to the Milwaukee Bucks brought back memories of their playoff game against the Miami Heat last season.
In both instances, Jalen Brunson showcased his heroics, but the rest of the starting lineup didn”t provide much support. Brunson had a standout performance with 45 points, giving the Knicks a late lead against the strong Bucks team. However, with better contributions from other starters like Julius Randle, the Knicks could have secured a victory. Unfortunately, Randle struggled, scoring 16 points but shooting only 5-of-20 from the field and 1-of-9 from three-point range. Over six games, Randle is averaging 13.7 points per game but shooting at a low 27.1 percent from the field and 22.5 percent from beyond the arc.
Julius Randle this season:
5/20 FG
3/15 FG
5/14 FG
4/15 FG
4/10 FG pic.twitter.com/ylOVPJegX9— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) November 4, 2023
Julius Randle in every game this season: pic.twitter.com/FxtsKsrMBX
— Shadyyee (@chockietee) November 4, 2023
These statistics have played a significant role in the Knicks” 2-4 record, including a loss in the inaugural In-Season Tournament. Randle is aware of his performance and admits he”s out of rhythm, feeling off-balance and somewhat pressured. Despite the frustrations of Knicks fans, Brunson supports his teammate and believes Randle will bounce back.
even cocomelon daddy shoots better than him 😂 pic.twitter.com/oAvWTIZ2E5
— Pack Mamba (@Pack_Mamba) November 4, 2023
Randle, who did contribute 12 rebounds (including four offensive) and five assists in the game, ended with a -5 overall rating for the night, quite different from his performance last season. In the 2022-23 season, Randle averaged 25.1 points, shooting at 45.9 percent from the field and 34.3 percent from three-point range. He earned All-Star and All-NBA honors, indicating his offensive prowess. The challenge now lies in finding cohesion within the team”s offense.
