New York Knicks forward Julius Randle has one year left on his contract before likely entering free agency. This situation might prompt the Knicks to consider trading Randle to gain value before he tests the market. Greg Swartz from Bleacher Report proposed a significant trade scenario between the Knicks and the Dallas Mavericks. In this trade, Randle would join the defending Western Conference champions, Dallas Mavericks, while the Knicks would receive power forward P.J. Washington, center Daniel Gafford, shooting guard Jaden Hardy, a 2025 second-round pick (via the Toronto Raptors), and a 2028 second-round pick (via the Miami Heat).
Swartz argues that if the Knicks find Randle unaffordable or prefer a smaller lineup with Josh Hart starting, Dallas could be a suitable destination for him. The Knicks would benefit from acquiring Gafford, who could replace the departed Hartenstein either as a starter or a reserve, and Washington, who is a solid rotation forward. Hardy, a 22-year-old guard, would add scoring potential off the bench.
Despite this, it’s unlikely that the Mavericks would agree to this trade. They recently acquired Washington and Gafford before last year’s trade deadline, which contributed to their NBA Finals appearance. Although Randle could enhance the Mavericks’ potential, the timing of such a trade seems off. If both teams struggle by the All-Star break and Randle’s future with the Knicks looks uncertain, a trade might be more feasible then. For now, it seems Randle is more likely to remain with the Knicks or not be involved in such a trade.
