The New York Knicks slumped in the first round of the NBA playoffs, with star forward Julius Randle dealing with an injury before leading the team into their series with the Cleveland Cavaliers.
Fortunately for New York, Randle’s injury did not affect the series that much, as New York wiped the floor with Cleveland in the first round, defeating the Cavaliers in five games to advance to the second round where they would face Miami. Heat.
However, Game 1 of the second round series against the Heat is in doubt for Randle, who suffered another ankle injury while shutting out the Cavaliers in the first round.
Knicks head coach Tom Thibodeau gave an update on his star forward’s status ahead of Game 1, which will take place on Sunday at Madison Square Garden in New York.
“He didn’t do much today but he’s feeling a little better. We’re hopeful. He went well today.”
Tom Thibodeau update on Julius Randle injury#nba #nix #New Yorkpic.twitter.com/Fzhew1BFPz
— TheColdWire.com (@thecoldwire) April 28, 2023
With Jalen Brunson and RJ Barrett playing at a high level in the first round against the Cavaliers, the Knicks were able to get by without a stellar performance by Randle, who had struggled against Cleveland.
However, the Heat could be a very tough opponent for the Knicks after Miami got the best of the top-seeded Milwaukee Bucks in five games.
Unlike the Cavaliers, the Heat are battle-tested in the NBA playoffs, with plenty of veteran players who have been in the position before and may see this postseason as their last chance to win a title.
Jimmy Butler, with a season full of veteran experience, is playing out of his mind at the moment and looks to elevate his game in the playoffs, which will obviously be a concern for New York.
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Knicks lose one player to injury for remainder of season