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New York Knicks: 3 X-factors for the 2021-22 NBA season

By Brendan O'Sullivan

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - OCTOBER 05: Julius Randle #30 and Obi Toppin #1 of the New York Knicks leave the court after the first half of a preseason game against the Indiana Pacers at Madison Square Garden on October 05, 2021 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 Sarah Stier/Getty Images)
NEW YORK, NEW YORK - OCTOBER 05: Julius Randle #30 and Obi Toppin #1 of the New York Knicks leave the court after the first half of a preseason game against the Indiana Pacers at Madison Square Garden on October 05, 2021 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 Sarah Stier/Getty Images) /
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New York Knicks Photo by Sarah Stier/Getty Images
New York Knicks Photo by Sarah Stier/Getty Images /

Julius Randle will be an X-factor for the New York Knicks in 2021-22

Julius Randle captured Knicks fans’ hearts after a career year in which the franchise broke its seven-year playoff drought.

But in arguably the most important five games, he fell apart. His 24.1 points, 10.2 rebounds and 6.0 assists per game on .456/.411/.811 shooting splits fell to 18 points, 11.6 rebounds, 4.0 assists and 4.6 turnovers per game on .298/.333/.852 splits.

It was a vast disappointment following a successful regular season. Now, the goal is to churn regular-season numbers into playoff wins. It’s not an easy recipe to complete.

Last year, the Knicks’ offense was putrid, ranking 26th with 107 points per game. Randle was the primary scorer and distributor, which hurt the team in the postseason. This season shouldn’t be the same given the significant additions to the team’s backcourt.

Kemba Walker and Evan Fournier will relieve the 6’8″ forward of some offensive duties. RJ Barrett returns and will continue to be a major piece as he enters his third year in the NBA.

Undoubtedly, the Knicks have more offensive weapons. The bench is deep. Tom Thibodeau is still the head coach.

Randle should have another strong season. His stats may decrease due to the increase in scorers, but he’s still the clear-cut first option. The key is to take these numbers and translate them into wins — in the regular season and playoffs.

It’s a redemption year for Randle. And if he’s successful, the Knicks likely will be, too.

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