Julius Randle once again proves he is the most respected star in the NBA

When I discuss Julius Randle, the word “underrated” comes to mind. Despite averaging 26.8 points, 6.9 rebounds and 5.6 assists on 56/44.2/84.9 shooting splits, Randle is rarely (if ever) praised by the national media. However, being undervalued is nothing new for Big Ju.

After being traded to the Minnesota Timberwolves (along with Donte DiVincezno and a protected first-round pick who turned into Joan Beringer) in exchange for Karl-Anthony Towns, the consensus was that the New York Knicks won the trade. Nevertheless, Randle’s shot creation and playmaking made him an ideal co-star alongside Anthony Edwards. This gave the Wolves a skill set that Towns did not have. Additionally, the Wolves increased their depth and saved a significant amount of money, allowing them to re-sign Naz Reid.

Even after a career-best playoff run in which he averaged 21.7 points, some of Randle’s doubters remained unconvinced. Some observers even went so far as to say the Wolves would regret signing Randle to a three-year extension worth $100 million. Randle has undoubtedly done enough to address some of these concerns so far, but he still doesn’t get enough credit.

Randle is the most underrated star in the league

Whether it’s creating top shots, playmaking, ball defense or floor spacing, Randle has done it all for the Wolves this season. The 6-foot-1 forward is one of the most versatile offensive players in the league. Impressively, Randle ranks second in the league in points per isolation possession; earlier this week he led the NBA in this regard. Randle is shooting a career-high from 3-point range (44.2 percent) and at the rim (72.7 percent). He does all this while leading the team in assists.

Randle has done a fantastic job keeping the Wolves afloat without Edwards. Notably, the Wolves had the sixth-best offense in the four games Edwards has missed. With Ant back in the mix, the Wolves have an elite one-two punch with Edwards and Randle. Minnesota is off to a slow 4-4 start and has just one win against .500 teams. However, the Wolves often start slow and Randle is a reason to believe in this team’s long-term prospects.

The stars are aligning for Randle to make his fourth All-Star team, and perhaps even his third All-NBA team. All of these accolades came while Randle was playing in New York, and he led them to their first playoffs in seven years. Yet Randle was often criticized in the media, while he never received the proper flowers when he was with the Knicks. Honestly, I can’t think of another player with Randle’s resume who is less lauded.

While it’s a shame that Randle doesn’t get enough credit, fortunately he has become a beloved and indispensable part of this Wolves team.