Mar 28, 2014; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Kentucky Wildcats forward Julius Randle (30) controls the ball against Louisville Cardinals forward/center Mangok Mathiang (12) in the second half in the semifinals of the midwest regional of the 2014 NCAA Mens Basketball Championship tournament at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports
Encouraging news. Julius Randle worked out for the Lakers today. The Lakers as a unit lacked scoring in the paint. The Mike D’Antoni offensive system usually provides scoring in the paint through pick and roll situations and dribble penetration.
Julius Randle is the antithesis of that philosophy. He is capable of playing in the high post, up to 15′. While he never really showed his jumpshot from midrange, he showed that he was capable of hitting those shots in high school.
"“Julius looked phenomenal. He looks 100% healthy to me,” said Mark Madsen, a player development coach with the team…“I met with the best foot doctor in the country, and he said he wouldn’t do anything for my foot,” said Randle. “There’s no scheduled surgery or anything. I feel healthy, athletic. I’m moving great — no problem recovering. I’m ready to go.” – Los Angeles Times"
One of the concerns about Julius Randle was that he lost some explosiveness. It didn’t carry over from his high school days as an elite prospect.
"Randle said he’s lost five to 10 pounds since his college days.“I’ve really focused on eating healthy,” he said, noting he ranges from 4% to 6% body fat. – Los Angeles Times"
There have been previous reports of Julius Randle losing up to 20lbs., which seems a bit drastic in such a limited amount of time. Still, his conditioning, eating habits, and strength should help him regain some quickness and explosiveness around the rim. It’ll also help alleviate some concerns with any additional pressure with the injury to his right foot.
Randle understands the expectations of being a Laker. Playing in Los Angeles as a Laker means playing for championship contention. He’s competitive, he’s doing what he can, and considering how he acquired 22 double-double games in his freshman year against tough competition, he may be more ready than most.