New York Knicks: 3 reasons why NY could win a first-round playoff series

Why the New York Knicks can be a factor in the playoffs: Julius Randle is a legit star and RJ Barrett is no slacker

Aside from their great defensive turnaround from last year to this season, Julius Randle‘s breakout year has also been a key to their success. Even though many questioned Randle and whether he should’ve been an all-star this season, let’s just get this out of the way – Randle is legit and a budding star in the NBA.

Randle is averaging 24 points, 11 rebounds, and six assists per game this season on 46 percent shooting from the field and 41 percent shooting from 3-point range. He’s done it all for the Knicks this season offensively and has been the leader that this team has needed.

Also, let’s not forget about RJ Barrett, who helps make a dynamic duo with Randle. Barrett is having a solid second season in the league, averaging 17 points and six rebounds on 39 percent shooting from 3-point range.

This duo is only growing individually and together and could emerge as a real threat to any first-round playoff opponent.