Despite the New York Knicks maneuvering near the hard cap after acquiring Mikal Bridges and securing a new deal with OG Anunoby, there is considerable speculation about Julius Randle’s future with the team.
According to SNY.tv’s Ian Begley, the addition of Bridges did not immediately prompt a specific plan to trade Randle. The Knicks traded Bojan Bogdanović, five first-round picks, a pick swap, and a second-round pick to the Brooklyn Nets for Bridges, which pushed them against the $178.7 million hard cap.
Additionally, New York locked in Anunoby with a five-year, $212.5 million contract before free agency commenced. ESPN’s Bobby Marks reports that the Knicks currently have $9 million remaining under the second apron with four roster spots to fill.
Isaiah Hartenstein, who is set to become an unrestricted free agent, could be on the outs unless a move like trading Randle alleviates financial constraints. Fred Katz of The Athletic mentioned that the Knicks have been exploring ways to adjust their finances in the Nets trade to facilitate retaining Hartenstein.
Randle’s recent injury history also factors into the Knicks’ decision-making. He missed the final 49 games of last season, including the playoffs, due to shoulder surgery. Despite this setback, Randle was named to the All-Star team for the second time in his career before the injury.
Currently owed $28.9 million for the upcoming season with a player option of $30.9 million for 2025-26, Randle is eligible for a contract extension starting on August 3, offering up to four years and $181.5 million, per Marks.
Throughout his five seasons with the Knicks, Randle has been a consistent performer, averaging 22.6 points on 45.0 percent shooting, along with 9.9 rebounds and 4.7 assists per game across 330 appearances.