Why the Lakers should be jumping at a Julius Randle trade

By Jason Reed | Aug 8, 2022

NEW YORK, NY - FEBRUARY 02: Julius Randle #30 of the New York Knicks drives against Kyle Anderson #1 of the Memphis Grizzlies on February 2, 2022 at Madison Square Garden in New York City. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Rich Graessle/Getty Images) /

2 of 3

(Photo by Nic Antaya/Getty Images) /

2. Julius Randle is better than fans are giving him credit for

Julius Randle had a disappointing season last year, I get that. He and the New York Knicks were a feel-good story as he elevated his game to that of an All-NBA player and the Knicks made the playoffs by a complete surprise.

Randle then did not play well in the playoffs and followed that up with a pretty poor season last year. While he was still better than Russell Westbrook, he could not recapture that magic and was shooting very poorly from beyond the arc.

A big reason why Randle struggled was the lack of having a playmaking point guard like Derrick Rose. All the Knicks really had was Immanuel Quickly, who was the only teammate that Randle had a positive net rating with on the floor.

The previous season Randle had his two best net ratings with either Rose or Quickley on the court. Having a playmaking guard that could drive and kick made a world of difference for Randle and he would have that in Los Angeles.

LeBron James is the smartest mind in the sport and he would help maximize Randle’s game. With Randle’s playmaking ability as well, Randle can benefit from LeBron’s playmaking when he is on the court and flex more of his muscles when LeBron is off the bench.

Yes, last season was bad but this is still a guy who made an All-NBA team two seasons ago. It would totally make sense if he was old and washed up but he is still only 27 years old. That potential is there.

Home/Lakers News