Julius Randle has a player option for the 2025-26 season, meaning he could become a free agent next summer if he and the Knicks don’t agree on an extension this season. Former Knicks GM Scott Perry is among those advocating for the Knicks to secure an extension for Randle. On ESPN, Perry emphasized Randle’s importance to the Knicks roster, arguing that he is too valuable to let go.
“The Knicks should definitely sign Julius Randle to an extension, and here’s why,” Perry explained. “The Knicks desperately need a reliable second scorer. We saw their playoff struggles without one. ‘Big Bodied Brunson,’ as Kendrick Perkins calls him, needs someone to alleviate the pressure when teams double-team and scheme against him.”
Perry noted Randle’s strong personal connection to the organization, having played under Tom Thibodeau for the past four years and built relationships with his teammates and the front office. Randle understands the challenges and opportunities of playing in New York and feels he has unfinished business, aiming to help the team reach a conference championship and even an NBA Finals.
On paper, Randle is a prime candidate for an extension. He’s a three-time All-Star and two-time All-NBA member. The Knicks missed his scoring, shot creation, and size during their playoff run, especially after he was sidelined with a dislocated shoulder in late January.
However, extending Randle is a complex decision. Despite his many strengths, he presents a challenging fit with the revamped Knicks roster. Randle excels with the ball in his hands but struggles as a floor-spacer and defender.
Financially, extending Randle at his maximum contract could push the Knicks perilously close to the second salary cap apron, which would severely limit their ability to build the team through free agency and trades. Signing Randle to his max would diminish the advantage of Jalen Brunson’s team-friendly discount.
There is speculation that Randle might accept a lesser deal, inspired by Brunson’s team-oriented sacrifice, potentially setting a trend that could influence Mikal Bridges when he becomes eligible for an extension in October. Randle might prefer the security of an extension, even at a discount, rather than risking free agency, where big contracts from other teams are not guaranteed.
Additionally, Knicks owner James Dolan reportedly holds Randle in high regard. Perry reinforced this sentiment, stating, “You definitely gotta re-sign [Randle] because he’s reliable, he’s tough, and he fits well with this group.”
The decision to extend Randle involves balancing his on-court contributions with financial considerations and the overall team strategy, making it a critical and nuanced choice for the Knicks’ future.
