Knicks News
Julius Randle make more field goals off assists with Thibodeau
Randle could do more field goals and the Knick players will be the beneficiary of his improved efficiency.
As part of the absorption of a new role as option no. 1, Randle has opted for far more field goals outside the isolation games. As a result, his field goals achieved with assists have declined year over year, correlating with a greater decline in efficiency. Randle actually shot below the league average from almost anywhere over 8 feet from the basket. As part of Randle’s touch reduction, it’s vital to help him score assists, as this will increase his% FG and improve the team’s overall attack.
During the 2018-19 season, 53.9% of Randle’s field goals were from assists. That number dropped to 47.7% last season. There is no starker difference in his shooting profile than shots made within 8 feet of the basket. During the 2018-19 season, Randle shot 60.5% from less than 8 feet from the basket while 49.9% of the goals scored were assisted. This year, Randle only shot 55.4% from less than 8 feet from the basket, while 42.5% of the field goals he scored were assisted. This is further exacerbated as Randle has redistributed around 14% of his total shots year-over-year from paint to mid-range. He ran a little better year on year from the mid-range, but at the cost of scoring more points without assistance.
His three-point field goal percentage increased from 34.4% to 27.5%. While he made over 93.7% of his three assists, he couldn’t find the touch. However, simplifying its offensive arsenal around the paint will have a domino effect on the perimeter.
A simple solution is to have more pick-and-roll opportunities. Randle had the greatest synergy with Elfrid Payton, obviously aided by playing alongside the Pelicans during the 2018-19 season. Payton assisted on 82 field goals made for Randle. Randle’s screen setup is much more effective than having him dribble for 5 seconds before making a contested shot.
If Randle spends less energy making baskets, he will score more field goals and Knick’s players will be the beneficiaries of his increased efficiency.
Mitchell Robinson’s injury history could open the door for Ariel Hukporti to earn a bigger role with the Knicks. The 7-footer is looking to prove himself after a limited, injury-shortened season.
For Ariel Hukporti, the path to more minutes with the New York Knicks may be paved by Mitchell Robinson’s ongoing injury concerns.
Robinson has developed a reputation for being injury-prone, often sidelined at pivotal moments throughout his Knicks tenure. This recurring issue could provide a valuable opportunity for Hukporti to step in as a reliable backup center.
Despite a limited sample size last season, Hukporti showed flashes of potential before a torn left meniscus cut his campaign short. In 25 games, he averaged 2.0 rebounds and 0.6 blocks in just 8.7 minutes per game — modest numbers, but enough to highlight his ability to affect the game with size and defensive presence.
Hukporti Could Be a Key Contingency Plan for Knicks Frontcourt
At 7-feet tall, Hukporti has the raw tools to become a defensive anchor in the paint. His shot-blocking instincts and rebounding upside give him a chance to climb the depth chart, especially if he can stay disciplined and avoid foul trouble — a current weakness in his game.
With Mitchell Robinson’s health status always uncertain, Hukporti’s development becomes increasingly critical for a Knicks team eyeing a deep postseason run.
Milwaukee Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo shuts down trade rumors linking him to the New York Knicks, stating, “I love Milwaukee” during a livestream with IShowSpeed.
One of the biggest storylines in the NBA offseason revolves around Giannis Antetokounmpo and the lingering questions about his future with the Milwaukee Bucks. With ongoing uncertainty about the team’s long-term direction, speculation has swirled around a potential blockbuster move — with the New York Knicks emerging as a top rumored destination.
Knicks Trade Rumors Dismissed by Giannis
Despite the hype, Giannis has made it clear that he’s not planning a move to Madison Square Garden anytime soon. While speaking on a livestream with popular streamer IShowSpeed, the two-time NBA MVP addressed the Knicks speculation directly:
“A lot of people tried to convince me to go and play [in New York for the Knicks],” Giannis said with a laugh.
When asked whether he would stay in Milwaukee for the 2025-26 NBA season, Antetokounmpo offered a measured but telling response:
“Probably. We’ll see. I love Milwaukee.”
Knicks Still in Search of a Superstar Boost
The Knicks, who fell just short in the Eastern Conference Finals, continue to seek the right superstar to push them over the top. While Giannis may not be on the move this offseason, New York remains aggressive in its pursuit of a championship-caliber roster.
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