Rising star Mitchell Robinson and the newly-signed Julius Randle crack ESPN’s top 100 NBA players list for the New York Knicks.
The New York Knicks are going to be a much more talented team than they were last season. Specifically, they should bring a strong frontcourt to the table with Mitchell Robinson and Julius Randle manning the paint.
ESPN released its top 100 NBA players list on Monday and both Robinson (98) and Randle (92) made the cut. Presumably, Robinson and Randle will be the only Knicks to make the top 100.
Robinson is coming off of an eye-opening rookie season. His dominance as a rim-protector and penchant for making tough shots at the rim helped Robinson make the NBA’s All-Rookie Second Team last season.
The springy center averaged 2.4 blocks in just over 20 minutes per game as a rookie. Heading into year two in the Association, Knicks fans expect Robinson to take another big step forward in his development.
Randle is coming to New York after playing one season with the New Orleans Pelicans. The power forward’s one year in NoLa was his most productive season yet. He averaged 21.4 points, 8.7 rebounds, and 3.1 assists per game.
Both Randle and Robinson have the potential to significantly outperform their ranking. Randle has multiple incentives in his contract, including a nice bonus if he makes the All-Star Game.
Of course, Randle is an unlikely All-Star, but as the focal point of the Knicks, he could put up the numbers to make his first All-Star appearance. Not to mention, his switch to the less talented Eastern Conference helps his chances.
The Knicks have a young and exciting frontcourt to rely on in 2019-20.
