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.
ESPN Sources: Knicks All-Star forward Julius Randle (left ankle sprain) is targeting a return vs. the Cavaliers on Saturday. Randle has been steadily improving and plans to test his left ankle prior to gametime before making a final decision on rejoining lineup for Game 1.
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) April 14, 2023
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
