The New York Knicks have addressed several key offseason priorities, but one unresolved issue is the contract situation of All-Star power forward Julius Randle. Since August 1, Randle has been eligible for a four-year, $181.5 million extension but has yet to sign a new deal, with training camp just two weeks away. While the Knicks want to retain Randle, offering him a max extension would limit their financial flexibility, making negotiations challenging unless he agrees to a significant pay cut. It’s expected that the two sides may enter the season without a new deal in place.
Randle holds a player option for next season, which he’s likely to decline if no extension is reached, potentially making him an unrestricted free agent for the first time since 2019. According to SNY’s Ian Begley, the decision hinges on how much the Knicks’ leadership believes Randle contributes to winning.
“The only opinion that matters is Leon Rose’s,” Begley said. “If he thinks Randle can help the Knicks win a championship, then he’ll stay. If not, a trade may be on the horizon.”
Randle’s future in New York will depend on his impact alongside key players like OG Anunoby and Mikal Bridges. Coming off a season where he averaged 24 points, 9.2 rebounds, and five assists per game, Randle’s performance this year will be crucial in determining whether he remains a core part of the Knicks’ long-term plans.
