Julius Randle will be able to play against New York
By Keith Rivas
Julius Randle is back and available for the Lakers’ game in New York on Monday.
There have been plenty of things trying to derail the Lakers this season.
Whether it’s confidence, injuries, or illness, they don’t seem to be able to really catch a break.
Julius Randle was the most recent victim of issues, but is reportedly back to being available for the team.
Los Angeles is currently in a long road trip, which will land them in New York on Monday night.
More details about Randle’s return emerged in a report from CBS Sports.
Per the report:
"It appears coach Walton has yet to decide whether or not Randle will play on Monday as well, so until further clarification is given on Randle’s availability, it will be a situation to avoid."
Thankfully, his status has since changed.
Luke Walton says Julius Randle will start tonight against the Knicks. They'll keep an eye on his condition during the game.
— Tania Ganguli (@taniaganguli) February 6, 2017
The important part is that the team has him back healthy.
After losing D’Angelo Russell to a second injury this season, the Lakers aren’t open to having to play without their go-to guys.
Russell has since returned, but his absence was felt heavily.
Weighing in on team decisions now is former Lakers point guard Magic Johnson.
The hope is that he will have an impact on the young core that even new face Luke Walton hasn’t been able to have yet.
Guidance is something the team definitely lacked under Byron Scott, but that could change as the season rolls on.
There’s still a lot to look forward to for this Lakers team, and Julius Randle is right in the mix of that.
This season, Randle has averaged 12.8 points and 8.2 rebounds per contest.
Without him, the Lakers lack a lot of play-making ability on the block.
Next: UCLA Ranked No. 12 In Latest AP Poll
It’ll be interesting to see how the team continues to handle the situation.