Actor Ben Stiller, a devoted fan of the New York Knicks, shared his thoughts on the recent trade of Julius Randle to the Minnesota Timberwolves.
In a heartfelt tweet, Stiller expressed gratitude for Randle’s contributions to the franchise.
“Julius Randle carried the Knicks on his back when he first came here,” Stiller wrote.
He praised Randle for bringing winning back to the team, emphasizing his importance to the franchise.
Stiller noted, “No one will ever know what the winning January ‘24 Knicks would have done in 24/25.”
He acknowledged that Randle faced significant pressure and scrutiny during his tenure with the Knicks.
“Who can know what it is to endure that pressure? I wouldn’t want it,” Stiller added, highlighting the challenges players face in New York.
Despite the ups and downs, Stiller praised Randle’s commitment to the community and the team.
His gratitude was evident as he said, “Grateful for his time here. He is an all-star and we’re lucky to have had him.”
Stiller concluded by wishing Randle success in Minnesota, stating, “He is going to bring a lot of toughness, grit, and dedication to that team and community.”
Randle joined the Knicks in July, 2019, signing a three-year, $63 million contract as a free agent.
During his time in New York, Randle achieved notable success, including scoring 44 points in a game against the Atlanta Hawks in February 2021.
That same season, he earned a spot as a reserve in the 2021 NBA All-Star Game. Randle’s performance helped him secure the NBA Most Improved Player award, garnering 98 of 100 first-place votes.
Despite his accolades, Randle struggled in the playoffs, shooting just 29% from the field as the Knicks were eliminated by the Hawks.
In August 2021, the Knicks extended Randle’s contract with a four-year, $117 million deal.
Randle continued to impress, scoring a career-high 46 points in March 2022 against the Sacramento Kings.
However, he faced criticism during a disappointing season following high expectations. He was selected to the All-Star Game for the second time in 2023.
Randle reached a career-high of 57 points in a game against the Minnesota Timberwolves in March 2023.
His efforts helped the Knicks secure a strong playoff run, reaching the Eastern Conference Semifinals.
Last season, Randle averaged 24 points, 9.2 rebounds, and 5 assists per game for the Knicks, earning his third All-Star selection.
However, he was sidelined with a shoulder injury in April 2024, ending his season prematurely.
Recently, the Knicks traded Randle, along with Donte DiVincenzo, to the Timberwolves in exchange for Karl-Anthony Towns.
The trade marks a new chapter for both Randle and the Knicks as they continue to reshape their roster.
