How long is Julius Randle out? Ankle injury timeline, return date, latest updates on Knicks star

Jordan Greer

How long is Julius Randle out? Ankle injury timeline, return date, latest updates on Knicks star image

The Knicks have locked up a playoff berth, but there is one major concern looming over Madison Square Garden.

Julius Randle suffered an ankle injury during New York's March 29 matchup with Miami. The Knicks star has been one of the most reliable players in the NBA, starting in 77 of 82 games this season.

Now, New York is hoping that its leading scorer will be able to rejoin the rotation for its first-round series against Cleveland.

Here's everything we know about Randle's injury and the latest news on when he may return to the court.

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What is Julius Randle's injury?

During the first half of the game between the Knicks and Heat, Randle was battling for position with Tyler Herro underneath the rim. He jumped to grab an offensive rebound, and as he landed, he appeared to step on Bam Adebayo's foot.

After making one of his two free throw attempts, New York committed a foul, giving Randle an opportunity to limp back to the locker room. He was later ruled out with a sprained left ankle.

"He was good. He seemed like he was good," Knicks guard Immanuel Quickley said when asked about Randle. "Honestly, I don't know the severity of it. I know it was bad just by the reaction when they showed the replay. He was in good spirits when I talked to him."

How long will Julius Randle be out?

The Knicks announced on March 30 that Randle would be sidelined for at least two weeks. He sat out the final five games of the regular season.

ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski reported on April 14 that Randle is "targeting a return" for the opening game of the series between New York and Cleveland. He plans to test his ankle before tipoff.

Knicks vs. Cavaliers schedule

Date Game Time (ET) TV channel
April 15 Game 1 6 p.m. ESPN
April 18 Game 2 7:30 p.m. TNT
April 21 Game 3 8:30 p.m. ABC
April 23 Game 4 1 p.m. ABC
April 26 Game 5* TBD TBD
April 28 Game 6* TBD TBD
April 30 Game 7* TBD TBD

*If necessary

Julius Randle career stats, highlights

  • 18.7 points per game
  • 9.4 rebounds per game
  • 3.6 assists per game
  • 2.8 turnovers per game
  • 31.7 minutes per game
  • 47.0 percent shooting
  • 33.6 percent 3-point shooting
  • 74.5 percent free throw shooting

Jordan Greer

Jordan Greer Photo

Jordan Greer has been with The Sporting News since 2015. He previously worked for the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. He is a graduate of Westminster College and Syracuse University.