Tom Thibodeau, the man at the helm of the Knicks’ strategic direction, seems likely to experiment with redefining the on-court role of star player Julius Randle in the coming season. Amid the physically demanding hustle of center position, the worry of Randle becoming excessively worn down remains in mind. ‘We might need to manage the center’s role as a group effort,’ Thibodeau shared with Steve Aschburner, renowned basketball scribe, in an NBA.com exclusive discussion.
Thibodeau added, ‘We have the ability to switch things up, given the versatility at our disposal. Julius could see more game time in the center position. Not for extended periods, though, as that could be taxing for him – 10 or 15 minutes could be feasible. It would also provide a significant offensive edge.’
Since the departure of Isaiah Hartenstein to Oklahoma City, the Knicks seem to be wrestling internally with filling the center’s position on the roster. A source tight with the team has recently raised this point. Mitchell Robinson currently leads the lineup but is seen as fragile due to his string of surgeries, the latest of which was on his ankle.
The backbench is held firmly by Jeremiah Sims, an athletic but still developing force, and the slightly shorter Precious Achiuwa, who is often seen as more of a power forward. With training camp on the horizon in two weeks, both are still key contenders for backup center. Randle, occasionally deployed there, could also be in the running for more frequent opportunities.
The cogs in the Knicks’ front office are also reportedly active in seeking center options in the free-agent/trade markets, according to NBA insiders. In previous seasons, Thibodeau had been more inclined to deploy Randle at 5, preferring the rebounding and security at rim provided by conventional center players like Robinson, Hartenstein and Nerlens Noel.
One cannot overlook that line ups featuring Randle and power forward Obi Toppin were unanimously dismissed by Thibodeau. This left Toppin dissatisfied with minimal playing time as Randle’s understudy and put him squarely on the trading block.
But the recent acquisitions of two defensively adaptable forwards, OG Anunoby and Josh Hart, give Thibodeau more assurance to play without a conventional center. ‘Losing Hartenstein leaves a void we need to address,’ said Thibodeau. ‘Nevertheless, with our flexible roster, we can, if required, shift to a more nimble formation thanks to OG’s big-guarding capability. Similarly, Julius and Hart also possess this particular forte.’
Having Randle at the helm could bolster the Knicks’ collective aptitude on the floor. Convention is going to need a touch of creativity from Thibodeau to ensure Hart and Donte DiVincenzo secure productive minutes on the field. Randle, previously a center under Luke Walton’s stewardship with the Lakers, is recuperating from shoulder surgery and has been off the court since January.
Known for being one of the league’s most robust players and demonstrating a deep-rooted commitment to staying in the game, Randle’s age and potential free-agent status add an extra dimension to the equation. His 30th birthday is in November, and he could potentially be a free agent post-season. Engaging in physical duels with centers on a surgically revamped shoulder could be risky, as suggested by Thibodeau, especially for a player who’s yet to secure a contract extension.
Randle has been eligible for a $181.5 million contract extension over four years since earlier this summer, but no progress toward a conclusion has been made thus far. Without an extension, Randle may opt for free agency next summer by rejecting his $30 million player option for the 2025-26 season.
Despite everything, Thibodeau maintains his confidence. ‘Julius consistently rises to the challenges that each season presents,’ Thibodeau remarked. ‘Many overlook his remarkable performance four seasons ago. Our shooting lineup wasn’t as fortified as it is now, so he may have more room to operate which he demonstrated in his last month of play in January.’
Some time ago, Randle was definitively the power forward working alongside Hartenstein. Now, it seems Thibodeau has softened his stance, leaning more towards deploying Randle in the center position, albeit at a limit tolerable to his physical wellbeing.
It’s worth reflecting on Thibodeau’s final thoughts: ‘Randle’s achievements are notable – 25 points, 10 rebounds, and five assists per game on average. He’s been fundamental in our winning trajectory for the past four years in New York. The more talent you have, the more compromises need to be made. This holds true for Julius, as well as the rest of the team.’