Dwight Howard Recruits Julius Randle to Taiwan After Poor Series Against Miami Heat

Julius Randle continues to be criticized after another disappointing playoff performance.

Former NBA superstar Dwight Howard called out a list of players who underperformed in this year’s playoffs. 

One of the names was New York Knicks forward Julius Randle, who is out of the postseason after losing to the Miami Heat in six games.

The narrative of Randle underperforming in the postseason only continued against the Heat. He averaged 18.8 points in the series on 41 percent shooting from the field, including 28 percent from 3-point range. He averaged far below his season average of 25.1 points, recording only one 25-point game all postseason. 

In Game 6, Randle went 3 of 14 for 15 points and three turnovers, leaving Jalen Brunson’s 41-point performance out to dry. In addition to poor shooting, he frequently turned the ball over and seemed to have a negative effect on the Knicks when he was on the floor. His postgame interviews didn’t help his case, as he looked passive after losses and even insinuated the Heat “wanted it more” than the Knicks after Game 4.

"Maybe they want it more. I don't know. That's who we've been all year and we've gotta find a way to step up and make those plays if we want to keep this season alive."

Julius Randle on the Heat's 13 offensive rebounds each in Games 3 and 4.pic.twitter.com/RQYyQfNvtR

— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) May 9, 2023

The joke of sending underachieving players overseas is being brought to life by Howard, who is playing for the Taoyuan Leopards. The former NBA superstar is most likely kidding but it wouldn’t be surprising if he is truly recruiting. Besides, players like Randle are seemingly unwanted on their teams right now. After being eliminated, Randle was criticized by analysts and fans alike. Opposing fan bases mocked Randle, while Knicks fans showed their displeasure toward him.

Meanwhile, the Heat continue their playoff journey against the Boston Celtics Wednesday night. Hopefully, none of Miami’s players are recruited by Howard after this series.

Jayden Armant is a contributor to Inside the Heat. He is a student at Howard University. He can be reached at jayden.armant@bison.howard.edu or follow him on Twitter @jaydenarmant.