3 Knicks who must step up for New York to beat the Heat

Knick #1: Julius Randle

2-time All-Star and 2021 Most Improved Player of the Year, Julius Randle has had a checkered playoff history. His first performance as the Knicks’ leading man during the 2021 postseason against the Atlanta Hawks left much to be desired, and the 2023 playoffs have seen him endure a sprained left ankle that kept him out for Game 1 against the Heat.

While he did enjoy a 25-point, 11-rebound performance in New York’s Game 2 win, Randle will need to be the absolute best version of himself going forward. His size, rebounding prowess, and ability to drive to the basket with aggression make him a matchup nightmare for Miami. Outside of perhaps Bam Adebayo, there is not a perfect choice to guard Randle. Kevin Love may not be able to match Randle’s athleticism at this point in his career, and Butler is not as physically imposing as the 28-year-old Texas native.

Julius Randle could change the trajectory of the series and was clearly happy to be a part of a gutsy New York win that knotted the series at one game apiece.

“That’s what we do. Get into things together; get out of it together,” Randle told the New York Post after the win. “This is a very much together group. We have great chemistry on and off the court. I think because we really care for each other, it shows on the floor. Everyone sticks together in tough moments like that.”