July of 2019 marked a significant and somber period for New York Knicks enthusiasts, signaling what many hoped would be a turning point yet ultimately became a time of unfulfilled promises. The franchise believed it was on the cusp of landing NBA superstars Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving, coveted players who were expected to transform the team's fortunes.
However, both Durant and Irving elected to join the Brooklyn Nets, a decision that left the Knicks' fanbase and front office reeling. Kevin Durant summed up the sentiment succinctly: "The Knicks were no longer 'cool'," encapsulating the aura of disappointment that pervaded the team.
The Knicks' consolation prize was the signing of Julius Randle, who came aboard with a three-year, $63 million deal. While not the flashiest acquisition, Randle proved to be a linchpin for the team. Over his first three years with the Knicks, he averaged 23 points and 10 rebounds per game, appearing in 220 out of 246 games. His durability and performance earned him two All-NBA team selections and three All-Star appearances, making him a standout player during a turbulent period for the franchise.
Despite Randle's impressive performances, the Knicks struggled overall, finishing a combined 166 games under .500 since their last postseason appearance in 2013. During this phase, Steve Mills and Scott Perry helmed the front office, making numerous signings and trades in an attempt to revive the team's fortunes. Several players joined the Knicks on short-term, team-friendly deals, including Bobby Portis, Elfrid Payton, Taj Gibson, Marcus Morris, Alec Burks, Derrick Rose, and Nerlens Noel. These moves, however, did little to significantly move the needle.
In a bid to reconstruct the roster, the front office eventually traded Julius Randle and Donte DiVincenzo to the Minnesota Timberwolves in exchange for Karl-Anthony Towns, a move that aimed to infuse new energy and dynamics into the team. Additionally, the Knicks traded for OG Anunoby in December and secured Mikal Bridges over the summer, further underlining their commitment to building a competitive squad.
Randle’s contribution to the Knicks cannot be overstated. He was pivotal in leading the Knicks to three playoff appearances during his tenure. His endurance was remarkable, averaging 36 minutes per game from 2020 to 2023 and playing over 40 minutes in 43 of those games.
The Knicks have also seen their share of memorable trades and signings over the years. In 2010, David Lee signed an $80 million sign-and-trade deal with the Warriors and eventually earned an NBA championship ring in 2015, highlighting one of the successes from their broader trading history.
As the Knicks continue to reshape their roster and seek the right mix of talent, the memories of that fateful July in 2019 remain fresh. It was a time that tested the resilience of the team and its supporters, reminding everyone that in the world of professional sports, certainty is a luxury few can afford.