New York Knicks All-Star forward Julius Randle said Wednesday he’s feeling “better and stronger” after sustaining a dislocated shoulder three weeks ago, but he didn’t rule out season-ending surgery.
Speaking publicly for the first time since suffering the injury on Jan. 27, Randle said the aim is to return this season.
“There’s still necessary steps. It’s a process to everything. I have to weigh out everything ultimately and decide from there,” Randle told reporters at the team’s practice facility. “But right now, I’m just focused on trying to avoid (surgery), obviously, and get back on the court as soon as I can.”
Randle said he’s “heard many different options” about whether surgery is inevitable, either now or in the offseason.
“I like how I feel today as far as getting better, feeling stronger, progressing to where I need to be, as far as getting on the court,” Randle said.
“But I’m never somebody to say never, so ultimately I have to do what’s best for myself to have a long career, have longevity in this.”
Randle skipped All-Star festivities in order to continue rehabbing his shoulder. He was named an All-Star for the third time in the past four seasons.
On Jan. 27, Randle exited the Knicks’ victory over the Heat in the fourth quarter after colliding with Miami forward Jaime Jaquez Jr. during a drive to the basket. He landed awkwardly on his right side and was in noticeable pain as he ran to the locker room with trainers.
In 46 games (all starts) this season, Randle sports averages of 24.0 points, 9.2 rebounds and 5.0 assists while shooting 47.2 percent from the field and 31.1 percent from 3-point range.
The Knicks return from the All-Star break on the road against the Philadelphia 76ers on Thursday. Coach Tom Thibodeau said Isaiah Hartenstein (Achilles), Donte DiVincenzo (hamstring) and Bojan Bogdanovic (calf) all practiced for a second straight day, adding he’s hopeful to get some or all back against the 76ers.
The Knicks dropped five of six heading into the break.
–Field Level Media