The Knicks are probably not so transparent with their offseason plans that they are a completely open book. Unlike Chicago Bulls executive vice president Arturas Karnisovas or Denver Nuggets general manager Calvin Booth, Knicks president Leon Rose has kept his cards close to his vest. That said, any reports that come in should always be taken with a grain of salt.
However, Katz’s cachet was earned, not given. As a result, it’s likely that New York isn’t actually after Randle. They might be willing to listen to offers for the three-time All-Star because motivated teams could make eye-popping offers. Not ironically, the Knicks proved that to be true when they sent the Brooklyn Nets five first-round picks for Mikal Bridges.
As for New York putting out sensors to see what Randle might catch? That ship has sailed or is anchored in the Atlantic Ocean.
After the deal for Bridges was finalized, Randle said he was excited to team up with his former division rival. However, with Bridges, OG Anunoby and Josh Hart likely to play heavy minutes, the scoring-minded forward may feel some strain. While he’s physical enough to slide into center in smaller lineups, he’s never been a great interior defender.
Sure, Knicks coach Tom Thibodeau is a defensive guru who could try to coach him in that direction. Still, the duo has been together in New York since 2020-21. If he hasn’t taken his defensive responsibilities more seriously up until now, expecting him to do so in the future is a recipe for disappointment.
As the Knicks search for a center, the door for Randle’s potential exit opens even wider.