HOUSTON — Julius Randle stated that he is not considering a return to the All-Star team for the second time in three seasons, having missed out last year.
Randle has averaging 27.9 points in 14 games in December, including 41 points Thursday in the Knicks’ fifth consecutive loss to the Spurs. Recent offensive success has propelled him into the top 20 scorers in the NBA, with averages of 23.8 points and 9.7 rebounds.
Randle stated, “I’m just concentrating on the team, helping us get wins day by day, how I can improve as a player and a leader, and how we can improve as a team.” “If these things occur, whatever they may be, it will be fantastic. However, I am more committed to the team.”
Still, Randle acknowledged that his first All-Star selection with the Knicks in 2020 meant a great deal to him.
“Absolutely, it’s a feat to be able to do it; it’s fantastic,” he stated. Therefore, that would be a terrific thing, but, as I already stated, my attention is on the team.
Jalen Brunson, another All-Star candidate who averages 20.2 points and 6.6 assists per game, is questionable for Saturday night’s game against the Rockets due to a painful right hip that has kept him out of the last three contests. Coach Tom Thibodeau stated on Thursday that Brunson is “improving daily.”
RJ Barrett will miss his second consecutive game due to a finger injury.
Evan Fournier scored 11 points on 4-for-6 shooting in 17 minutes on Thursday in San Antonio after sitting out the previous 22 games since November 13. Thibodeau commended Fournier’s professionalism and readiness after the 11-year veteran scored 11 points on 4-for-6 shooting in 17 minutes.
“It’s to his credit. “He’s a true pro,” said Thibodeau. “It is not simple. I understand. It’s not easy for Derrick Rose either, but that’s what it means to be a professional and what’s expected of him.
When asked about Fournier’s return, Randle responded, “I felt he was amazing. He entered and engaged in inner play. Obviously, it is difficult to establish a rhythm after such a long absence from playing. But he was aggressive and produced crucial shots.”