Knicks' Star Julius Randle: A High-Stakes Trade Prediction Shakes Up New York's Future

The New York Knicks are soaring, but a storm cloud of major change might be gathering on the horizon for one of their highest-paid stars. A seismic prediction from ESPN's acclaimed NBA insider, Tim McMahon, suggests that power forward Julius Randle, a cornerstone of the team's recent resurgence, will likely be playing for a new franchise by the 2025-26 season.

McMahon dropped this bombshell on Brian Windhorst’s "Lowe Post" podcast, articulating a strategic pivot for the Knicks that could redefine their roster.

Randle, currently on a substantial $117 million deal signed in 2021 that extends through 2025-26 (with a player option for that final year), has been a pivotal figure, earning two All-Star selections and an All-NBA nod during his tenure in New York.

However, the landscape of the Knicks has dramatically shifted since Randle’s arrival.

The meteoric rise of Jalen Brunson has undeniably established him as the team's undisputed primary offensive engine. This evolution has brought into sharper focus Randle's "my turn" style of play, which, while effective in certain contexts, can sometimes clash with a primary ball-handler like Brunson who thrives on consistent possession and rhythm.

Adding to the complexity are Randle's recent injury woes.

Crucial ankle surgery at the end of the 2022-23 season, followed by a dislocated shoulder that sidelined him for the latter half of the 2023-24 campaign, has raised questions about his durability and ability to consistently contribute at his peak. These setbacks have coincided with the Knicks demonstrating an impressive ability to compete at a high level even in his absence, showcasing the depth and resilience of the current roster.

McMahon's rationale goes beyond just on-court fit.

He points to Randle’s contract as a key factor. Should Randle opt into his player option for the 2025-26 season, he would become an expiring contract, making him a highly attractive trade asset for teams looking to shed salary or acquire a proven talent without a long-term commitment. Alternatively, if he opts out, he would enter unrestricted free agency, but the prediction hinges on a trade occurring before that point, leveraging his value.

The Knicks are also sitting on a treasure trove of assets.

With an impressive haul of eight first-round draft picks over the next seven years, coupled with a promising core of young talent and established veterans like Miles McBride, Mitchell Robinson, Donte DiVincenzo, Josh Hart, and the indispensable OG Anunoby, New York is perfectly positioned to make a monumental move.

The overarching goal, as many speculate, is to consolidate these assets to acquire a "whale"—a third bona fide superstar who can complement Brunson and Anunoby and elevate the Knicks into undeniable championship contention.

In this strategic vision, Randle, despite his significant contributions, might become the most logical piece to move.

A trade would not only clear significant cap space or bring back a star but also provide Randle with a fresh start on a team where he could potentially revert to being a primary or strong secondary option, a role better suited to his offensive strengths. While Randle has been instrumental in changing the culture of the Knicks, this prediction signals an impending, calculated evolution as the team aims for the NBA's highest prize.