Looking at the New York Knicks roster for 2023, the team would want nothing more than to see Julius Randle log heavy minutes to help in their 2023-24 campaign. However, the problem stems from the fact that the two-time All-Star is not 100% healthy.
Also, Julius Randle's stats show his lack of strength. So far this season, he is averaging 16.5 points, 11.1 rebounds, and 4.9 assists in 34.4 minutes of action. The five seasons he has played with the team are fairly within that range, per Basketball Reference.
But it appears that Randle wants to see more playing time on the floor regardless of his injury. Known to be committed to availability, the 7th overall pick of the 2014 NBA Draft by the Los Angeles Lakers is not making his injured ankle an excuse to stay on the sidelines, the New York Post reported.
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The Knicks are looking out for Randle's health and long-term availability. But given this disagreement, could it result in a falling out?
The Knicks are no strangers to dealing with players who disagree with their decision-making. There are several former Knickerbockers who come to mind.
Luc Longley
Some may be surprised to hear the name of Luc Longley, best known for his time with the Chicago Bulls. He was part of the Patrick Ewing trade and hardly made his mark in New York.
Ironically, he also dealt with an injured ankle that eventually forced him into retirement. In his lone season with the Knicks, the Australian center averaged a measly 2 points and 2.6 rebounds in just 12 minutes of action in 25 regular season games.
Clarence Weatherspoon
Once touted to be the next Charles Barkley, Weatherspoon played for the Knicks for two seasons. Unfortunately, it was one of the forgettable acquisitions New York made.
He averaged 8.8 points and 8.2 rebounds in his first season but slowly faded away in the second year. He would eventually be dealt in his third year to the Houston Rockets.
Steve Francis
Steve Francis made a name for himself with the Houston Rockets, where he spent five years. His stock dipped when he was shipped to the Orlando Magic in 2004 with his tantrums despite still being at his peak.
He landed in New York in February 2006, but injuries took their toll on the three-time All-Star. He would be sent to the Portland Trail Blazers on 2007 NBA Draft Night and eventually released, ESPN reported.
Stephon Marbury
Starbury made a name for himself during his time in the NBA. Unfortunately, his rift with then-coach Larry Brown led to a falling out.
His antics were so distracting that he got banned after refusing to play under former coach Mike D'Antoni when the team was undermanned. He was banned and eventually sent packing to the Boston Celtics, CBS Sports reported.
Carmelo Anthony
Carmelo Anthony was a huge addition to the Knicks in 2011. Seen as the new cornerstone, Melo was under immense pressure to deliver an NBA title.
Years passed, and the 10-time All-Star was unable to do so. In the seven seasons he spent with the Knicks, he was only able to lead the NBA team to one playoff appearance per the Bleacher Report.
His run with the Knicks ended in 2017 after disagreements with former team President Phil Jackson. He was moved to the Oklahoma City Thunder and jumped from one team to another after.
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