Before joining the Minnesota Timberwolves, Julius Randle spent several seasons with the New York Knicks, and both teams remain active in the 2025 NBA Playoffs. This raises the possibility of a showdown between the Timberwolves and Knicks in the NBA Finals, fueling interest in Julius Randle communication with ex-Knicks teammates during this critical postseason period.
After Minnesota’s commanding 143-101 victory over the Oklahoma City Thunder in Game 3 at the Target Center on Saturday night, Randle was asked whether he has kept in touch with his former Knicks teammates throughout the playoffs. The star forward replied cryptically,
“Have I talked to them? I wouldn’t tell you if I did,”
—Julius Randle
Randle played with New York for five seasons from 2019-20 to 2023-24. In his final year with the Knicks, the team advanced to the second round of the 2024 NBA Playoffs; unfortunately, Randle did not participate due to a shoulder injury requiring surgery in April of that same year. Subsequently, a three-team trade involving the Knicks, Timberwolves, and Hornets sent Randle to Minnesota.
Randle’s Performance Highlights in Game 3 Against Oklahoma City
In the Timberwolves’ decisive 42-point win, Randle bounced back from a poor showing in Game 2, delivering 24 points on 9-for-15 shooting, alongside four rebounds and three steals over 30 minutes. His improved performance was key to maintaining Minnesota’s strong playoff push.
Current Playoff Standings and Potential Matchups
Meanwhile, the New York Knicks are facing a tough challenge in the Eastern Conference Finals, trailing the Indiana Pacers 2-0 in their series. With both the Timberwolves and Knicks still alive in the playoffs, a potential NBA Finals clash between Randle’s current team and his former squad remains a compelling storyline as the postseason advances.
This ongoing dynamic emphasizes the intriguing layers of player relationships and strategy that can unfold during the NBA Playoffs, particularly involving notable figures like Julius Randle and his ties to multiple teams in contention.