New York Knicks: 3 silver linings after striking out in free agency

2. Julius Randle is a quality signing

Julius Randle is yet another incredibly promising player that the Knicks now have under contract. Last season, he had a breakout season in which he averaged 21.4 points and 8.7 rebounds per game while playing alongside Anthony Davis, arguably a top-five player in the NBA.

Randle might not be the “Kevin Durant” type of player that fans hoped for, but he will certainly prove to be a great addition to the team. The Knicks were able to sign him to a three-year deal worth $63 million, including a team option for year No. 3.

After a series of seasons where he struggled to find a home, Randle now has a long-term contract and will look to contribute to this team for years to come.

Throughout the previous season, Randle proved to be a very efficient and reliable scorer. He managed to score 20-plus points in 45 out of the total of 73 games that he appeared in. The 31 double-doubles that he achieved in 2018-19 are only set to increase as a number, given that Randle will now be the heart and soul of his team’s paint.

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Now, bound to be the centerpiece of the team, Randle can flourish even more. With the whole city of New York being behind him, it wouldn’t be all that surprising seeing the 24-year-old power forward earn his first All-Star selection in the Eastern Conference.