NBA Rumors: Hornets May Revisit Randle Acquisition This Offseason

Though he has had a superb season with the New York Knicks, all signs point to a potential separation between the Gotham-based squad and Julius Randle in the NBA offseason. Though the 7th overall pick of the 2014 NBA Draft has been putting up impressive numbers, chemistry is singled out as the main issue.

In a previous report, it was mentioned how there are players who are not fond of Randle's knack of holding the ball too much during games. One player identified is RJ Barrett, the rookie who has been making waves this season. Further, the fact that the Knicks have not panned up despite Randle's numbers is notable. Dealing him away and possibly getting someone who can blend in better could work to the advantage of New York.

For Randle, one team who could revisit a possible NBA trade is the Charlotte Hornets. Both teams did hold talks on Feb. 6, but nothing was decided. Talks could be revived in the offseason should the Knicks finally decide to talk trade with the Hornets or some other team, the New York Post reported.

Also, new team president Leon Rose is likely to have a say in the matter. He is fully aware that Randle is just in the first year of a three-year $64 million deal and trading away a piece who does not fit is a given. The final year of that deal is a team option, something the Knicks may not execute. However, $4 million of that will count on the team's salary cap.

It would be hard to ignore what Randle brings to any NBA team. This season, he has averaged 19.5 points, 9.7 rebounds, and 3.1 assists. Teams in need of a bruiser could put the former Kentuck standout to good use where he could probably blend in better. Aside from Charlotte, other teams looking for a power forward who can operate well underneath the basket will likely be interested.

Other than Randle, it remains to be seen if there are other players who will be dealt with. Rose needs to address his head coaching position first, currently held on an interim basis by Mike Miller. Whoever is placed at the helm will identify which players are needed and who are not The Knicks are in for a long process and can only move once the fate of the current NBA season is finally determined.