JuliusRandle

Preseason question: How will Randle’s unique skill set be showcased in Jordi Fernández’s system—and how might that affect his value at the deadline? On one hand, getting off-loaded from a perennial Western Conference contender for practically nothing must be a hit to the ego. On the other, Brooklyn might be the perfect landing spot for Randle to regain his mojo in what seems likely to be a brief stint with the Nets. The 13-year vet will bring dynamic physicality to a young team that’s largely bereft of interior finishing—the only other player on the roster who attempted at least a quarter of their total shot attempts at the rim last season and hit at least 70 percent of them is Day’Ron Sharpe. 

 

Randle is the most accomplished version of an archetype that the Nets have been pursuing over the past few draft classes: a skilled big man who can attack off the dribble, make plays for others, and be willing to launch from deep. That last bit is pertinent. Randle dialed back his 3-point attempts during his time with the Wolves, but he had previously been on a path of unrepentant chuckery while on the Knicks. Just four seasons ago, Randle launched more than eight 3-point attempts per game. Could the Nets, who have had one of the most robust 3-point attempt rates in the league since Fernández took over as coach, put Randle back on that particular shot diet? Brooklyn has consistently rehabilitated castoffs—from Mikal Bridges to Cam Johnson to Michael Porter Jr.—into valuable trade chips. Randle could be next.