Timberwolves' Julius Randle Leads NBA Conference Finals Amid Knicks Trade

Julius Randle, traded from the New York Knicks to the Minnesota Timberwolves before the 2024-25 NBA season in a blockbuster deal involving Karl-Anthony Towns, has embraced his new start in Minnesota and remains focused on his current team. During the 2025 NBA Playoffs, Randle has been evasive about communicating with his former Knicks teammates, stating, "I wouldn't tell you if I did," when asked about contact. Despite a rough Game 2 performance in the Western Conference Finals against the Oklahoma City Thunder, Randle rebounded strongly in Game 3, scoring 24 points and contributing significantly to the Timberwolves' 143-101 victory. His veteran leadership and performance have earned praise from teammates like Anthony Edwards. Both the Timberwolves and Knicks have advanced to their respective conference finals, with the possibility of meeting in the 2025 NBA Finals. Randle's transition and playoff play have shifted expert opinions, highlighting his impact on Minnesota's postseason run.