How is Julius Randle faring just weeks before pre-season? The Knicks star’s past season came to an early end after he dislocated his right shoulder. While plans for surgery were initially called off with the hope that he would recover by the playoffs, the dire situation forced him to get it done in April. Now, weeks before the upcoming game against the Hornets, fans are tracking the hooper’s recovery. Fortunately, a recent sighting of the NY star at a Lionel Messi game helped to ease some minds, as it did for his loved one.

Earlier today, the hooper took to his Instagram to share a picture with his 978,000 followers. It showcased the 3x NBA All-Star, his wife Kendra Shaw, and two kids attending the New York City FC-Inter Miami last-minute nail-biter. Except for the little child who was peacefully sleeping on his mother’s shoulder, the family seemed to be all smiles, sporting jerseys that showed support to the home team!

The following update came just a few hours after a promo of the player’s upcoming series, Julius Randle: Family, Recovery, Life Beyond Basketball, made waves on the internet. When reminiscing about the last few months, Kendra Shaw revealed, “I was nervous because this was his second surgery in two seasons, two summers in a row. So, I was nervous, but he never ceases to amaze me, and he’s ahead of schedule. He’s doing awesome, and he’s ready to come back and we can’t wait to see him play again.”

The hooper has seldom displayed any love for soccer. Having been with the New York Knicks for over 5 years now, it would make sense for him to support his city whenever he could. The New York City FC club members would’ve been glad to see Randle around. They made their gratitude known by inviting him and his family to set off the smokestacks before the match commenced at Yankee Stadium. Once again, Julius and Kendra’s youngest Jaycey seemed distracted, while 7-year-old Kyden was in awe of the sight.

ESPN reporter Chris Herring recently revealed that Randle’s “recovery is going well, and he’s expected to be ready to play by or near the start of the season.” This will go a long way in boosting the morale of his teammates. After all, before he had to drop out of the season back in January, the 29-year-old averaged 24 points, 9.2 rebounds, and 5 assists as one of the team’s lead scorers.

His efforts played a big role in helping the Knicks maintain a high seed, which in turn led them to qualify for the playoffs for the 2nd time in a row. The injuries initially cast doubts over whether the player may end up being the subject of a potential trade. However, if the head coach’s words are to be believed, then the player’s role is not getting diminished, but rather getting an improvement.

Tom Thibodeau wants to give more time to Julius Randle as a center: “I think he can do it well”

The Knicks’ depth in the Center position was lost a bit after Isaiah Hartenstein opted for free agency, and then signed with OKC Thunder. Under normal circumstances, longtime center Mitchell Robinson would have picked up the slack. Unfortunately, he himself is working through two ankle surgeries that kept him benched for a major portion of the recent season. With Julius Randle being in a better condition health-wise, head coach Tom Thibodeau now wants him to step up.

“We could see Julius more at the 5,” Thibodeau said. “I don’t want to do that for long stretches. It would take its toll, but to have him do it for 10 or 15 minutes, I think he can do it well. He also would create a lot of [offensive] advantages.”

Julius Randle primarily handles the charge as a power forward. Fortunately, the Knicks are currently in a good position, having acquired Mikal Bridges and re-signed OG Anunoby. With Jalen Brunson, Donte DiVincenzo and Josh Hart also standing out, the offensive part will be covered enough for Randle to divide up his time as a center.

Further, the defensive prowess he provides would only help the franchise over the course of the season. Are you excited to see Julius Randle possibly return to the NBA court soon? Let us know in the comments down below.

Before you go, remember to check out this crossover between BG12 and Georgia Bulldogs star Silas Demary Jr.