The New York Knicks have received bad news regarding one of their best players.
Julius Randle had been dealing with an injury even before the Cleveland Cavaliers series started.
After that series was over, the Knicks focused on getting him ready to face the Miami Heat, but the team reportedly won’t have him available for Game 1.
According to NBA Insider Adrian Wojnarowski, Randle is expected to miss game 1 with an ankle sprain.
Knicks All-Star F Julius Randle (ankle sprain) is expected to be out for Game 1 vs. Miami today, sources tell ESPN.
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) April 30, 2023
Many fans reacted to this; some saying Miami got lucky with injuries and others still supporting the Knicks to win it all.
This is unfortunate for New York. I really want this to be a healthy series but man we have to take advantage of this.
— Jimmy Butler Enthusiast (@BigNateSRL2) April 30, 2023
Never seen a team luckier than the Heat.
— Holden (@holdenowen44) April 30, 2023
Knicks in 7 still
— 優木せつ菜 🇦🇷 (@nijigasakilove) April 30, 2023
This kinda makes it even with the Heat injuries
— Las Vegas Sports (@LVSportsDalton) April 30, 2023
Incoming excuses as to why Miami wins this series.
— Zach (@zachchambers) April 30, 2023
The Heat have a big chance to capitalize on this and steal Game 1 at Madison Square Garden.
They did the same against the Milwaukee Bucks in Game 1 of their prior series.
Losing Randle is big for the Knicks, as he posted big numbers against them during the regular season.
Source confirms Julius Randle (ankle) is not expected to play in Game 1 vs MIA. One note on Randle: leading into series, NYK coaches felt that Randle’s presence was crucial vs MIA. In last 3 games vs Heat, Randle averaged 27 points, 9.3 rebounds, 5 assists. ESPN first on Randle.
— Ian Begley (@IanBegley) April 30, 2023
He’s arguably their best player alongside Jalen Brunson and going against Jimmy Butler and co. without him will be tough.
But the Knicks know they can win against anybody, as they showed against Cleveland.
If Brunson stays inspired and continues his high level of play, the Knicks won’t have any trouble winning this game.
Obi Toppin will have to step in for Randle and try to stop the Heat.
Mitchell Robinson will have the hard job of going against Bam Adebayo, who is available for this game.
The series will have a complex start for the Knicks, but they can get away with this one.
NEXT: Knicks Coach Gives Update On Julius Randle's Injury
