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NBA All Star Weekend was a fun one this year- (unless you’re a prideful NYK fan, that is.)
In case you missed it, The New York Knicks’ own Julius Randle participated in the 3 point contest and was knocked out in the first round after compiling a mere 13 points overall and scoring just 11 points for Team LeBron in the All Star Game.
It’s no secret that Randle is undoubtedly one of the most controversial Knick players in the last ten years with franchise fans either loving him or wondering why he hasn’t been shipped off to Sacramento yet.
It’s hard to ignore Randle’s success this season, with the Power Forward averaging nearly 35.9 minutes, 24.8 PTs, 10.8 RB, and 4.1 AST per game, but it’s hard to shake the lackadaisical attitude we see from him nearly every time the camera or mic is near him.
According to NBA Reporter Jake Fischer, when Randle was asked about his 3 point contest participation, he said:
“I was just winging it, man, honestly. Just practiced once on Friday and I was like, ‘All right, I’ll just give it a go.’ Why not? I was here.” (Via @JakeLFischer)
Whether or not you’re opposed to Randle’s behavior, it’s hard to wrap our heads around the idea that Randle was selected for the All-Star game when in reality, if anyone should have been there this past weekend- Jalen Brunson earned his spot.
The 26-year-old point guard has proven himself time and time again, despite returning from a three-game absence due to his recent hip injury. Brunson is averaging 23.9 PTs, 3.6 RB, and 6.2 AST per game. He has managed to spark the conversation of being the best free agent signing the Knicks have ever seen, surpassing Allan Houston, John Starks and Anthony Mason. His name has already even been thrown in for most improved player.
In a recent interview with NY Post, Brunson said:
“I never really thought to myself what I could and couldn’t do…I just told myself I’ll continue to work and continue to get better when I step on the court… With that mindset I have, that’s also a credit to my teammates. They’ve been nothing but amazing and welcoming me with open arms. And the coaching staff, as well. With all that confidence poured into me, I’m just thankful I get to go out there and play as best I can and free as I can, and try to help the team win.”
So, who do you think really earned their All-Star spot?
