Knixkik wrote:GustavBahler wrote:joec32033 wrote:Knixkik wrote:GustavBahler wrote:From the Post..Knicks as quickly as possible, but the All-Star forward alarmingly said Wednesday that he still has not ruled out season-ending surgery on his dislocated right shoulder.Speaking publicly for the first time since suffering the injury Jan. 27 against the Heat, Randle said Wednesday that he’s feeling “better and stronger” with the aim of returning before the season ends.
But he also acknowledged more than once that surgery on his non-shooting shoulder remains a possibility.
Randle can play a role on a contender. But he's logged a lot of minutes. The injuries are becoming more frequent.
Counting on Randle to play at this level for a long time is a mistake IMO. Not as the second option. Randle only knows one speed, and that eventually takes its toll
Either draft an eventual replacement. Or sign or trade for one. I wouldnt count on Jules as far as availability beyond two years, not without a plan B.
I wouldn’t say anything about his injury history because he’s still one of the most durable players in the league. He has zero chronic concerns. He can play in the post where he can maintain longevity longer. He’s essentially built like lebron. Obviously he needs to prove himself in the playoffs as a number 2 option, but I doubt anyone is too concerned about his body breaking down or anything like that.
I was gonna post a thread asking if Randles durability is a bit of a hologram, but discussing it here is as good as any...
It isn't that Randle doesn't get injured. He gets injured, he just plays through it. I think that is part of the problem with some of his inconsitencies. He's a work horse just being on the court, but due to his style injuries affect him on the court more than most. 80% of Randle is not like 80% of Jokic or Paul George or KAT. all are much less physical players and their less physical style lends itself to being more favorable to play through injuries.
This isn't a bash Randle post either. It isn't questioning his toughness or wanting him traded. It just is putting out there that he is sitting out with injuries a bit more (which is ok-in a catch 22 it might lead to him getting less periphery injuries that slow him down), but I think his durability advantage seems to be diminishing.
Agree, injuries around 30 are more impactful than around 20. Randle lost a step after his ankle surgery, which isnt surprising. We'll see what happens with Randle's shoulder.
Randle was hobbled in last year's playoffs and had surgery at the end of the season. Had a possibly season ending injury, not long after this season started.
Knixkik is right that they arent from chronic soreness, something that preceded it. They are from a ten year vet who has played bully ball for most of his career. Agree that its not a good call to expect Randle to keep dominating the way he has before, year after year like LeBron. He has his own team of doctors/scientists lol. Kawhi Leonard might be a better comp.
I wouldn’t say Randle lost a step. Many are saying this has been his best season. For Randle it’s all about making adjustments on the fly. Paying him an extension however is a concern. I wonder if in a year we can grab Bridges from Brooklyn if he demands only NY. Or will they say you can be traded anywhere else. Maybe they take Randle in that deal out of desperation to stay relevant. Or maybe we can help them lean into a rebuild. A lot would have to go right for that scenario to unfold so I’m just assuming we need to dig into what is already working.
I definitely see a lost step. As Ive been saying for a while now, it looks like its helping Randle do a better job of playing under control. But it does speak to injuries to long time vets as opposed to some kid fresh out of college.
Randle might show that burst again after time off, but we'll see if it lasts. Jules should still be able to put up good numbers regardless. But I believe its a mistake to rely on Randle as the number two option beyond two more seasons, without developing his successor. If the FO's goal is to keep Randle for the forseeable future.
If we're going to use some of those picks, I wouldnt mind trading up for a good PF prospect who Thibs likes.
I'm happy with the starting lineup, my concern is about a big contract for OG, and he cant stay on the court. I know a lot of posters want to complete the Nova reunion. But not at the expense of making the team too top heavy, and I believe adding Bridges will do that.
We add a first rate scorer, who is good enough to start, willing to come off the bench. Can play D as well. We'll be good enough to beat Boston.