The New York Knicks’ backup center dilemma has been the talk of the offseason because Isaiah Hartenstein’s free agency departure has left them somewhat shorthanded in that area.
Julius Randle will see time at the center position this upcoming season
There has been speculation about All-Star power forward Julius Randle potentially playing as the team’s backup center at various times during the season. On Tuesday, head coach Tom Thibodeau confirmed that the Knicks’ coaching staff is indeed considering this option.
“We might see Julius at the 5 position,” Thibodeau mentioned, according to NBA.com’s Steve Aschburner. “I wouldn’t want to use him there for extended periods, as it could be taxing, but having him play that role for 10 or 15 minutes could work well. It could also provide significant offensive advantages.”
The Knicks don’t have a lot of depth at the center position
Behind starting center Mitchell Robinson, Precious Achiuwa and Jericho Sims are expected to serve as the primary backup centers. However, Achiuwa’s lack of size and Sims’ inexperience present challenges for depth at the position, especially considering Robinson’s injury risks.
Julius Randle, while primarily a power forward, has some experience playing center. Although defensively he may face challenges as a five due to his less-than-ideal defensive skills, the presence of OG Anunoby could mitigate these concerns. Anunoby’s ability to defend against larger opponents would likely make him the primary defender against taller players when Randle is at center, potentially reducing the defensive issues associated with using Randle in that role.
Randle at center could enhance the Knicks’ offense
Thibodeau emphasized that using Randle at center offers an offensive edge, as it provides the Knicks with an additional floor spacer in that position—something none of their other centers offer consistently. This move also opens up more playing time for Donte DiVincenzo or Josh Hart, both of whom were key contributors last season but may see reduced roles with the addition of Mikal Bridges.
The Knicks will need to get creative with their backup center situation until they find a workable strategy. The hope is that incorporating Randle into the center position will not only address the depth issues but also create another effective lineup option for Thibodeau and the team.
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