The New York Knicks return to the playoffs after the 2021 series against the Atlanta Hawks. Back then, Trae Young handed Julius Randle and co. a gentlemen’s sweep. However, this year, the Knicks are a much-improved team with Jalen Brunson and others on the roster.
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So far this series, the Knicks started off with a bang. They took Game 1 on the road before succumbing in Game 2. Coming home for Game 3, the series is tied at one apiece. The crowd is excited to have playoff basketball back in New York and host a post-season game at Madison Square Garden.
However, heading into the game, the fans are also a bit nervous about their star. After the fall Randle had in Game 2, they’re unsure about his availability for Game 3.
Julius Randle will play in Game 3
Late in the 4th quarter of Game 2, the Knicks were down 23 points with barely over 2 minutes left in the game. Tom Thibodeau still had his starters on the floor, which was quite confusing for a lot of people. During a fast break opportunity, Julius Randle broke out for a dunk, when he was chased down and fouled. Randle took quite a rough fall, and looked shaken up.
Why does Thibs have Julius Randle in the game !? pic.twitter.com/oXapMk0TyM
— NBACentral (@TheNBACentral) April 19, 2023
He spoke about it after practice, where he shared how his a** hurts, his back hurts.
Julius Randle is asked if Jarrett Allen’s foul was a dirty play:
“It doesn’t even matter at this point. My ass hurts, my elbow hurts, but I gotta get ready to play for tomorrow. I’m ready to go.” pic.twitter.com/KuQq2yExYE
— Knicks Videos (@sny_knicks) April 20, 2023
This put fans in doubt about his availability for Game 3. However, there is no mention of Randle on the team’s injury report. This means that Julius Randle will suit up tonight. On top of that, Jalen Brunson, after surviving a slap by Randle, will also be fine and suiting up tonight.
