In another episode of the New Orleans Pelicans’ offseason soap opera, let’s look at a potential challenge the front office could face. Julius Randle might opt out of his contract and test free agency. If that happens, what should the Pelicans do?
Julius Randle, who was coming off a career season with the Lakers in 2017-2018, was acquired by the New Orleans Pelicans in the last year’s offseason. After signing what could only be considered a bargain of a contract—especially for today’s standards in the NBA—Randle has elevated his level of play for the Pels.
Free agent Julius Randle has agreed to a two-year, $18M deal with New Orleans, league sources tell ESPN. Player option second year.
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) July 2, 2018
Now that his first year with the Pelicans has concluded, Randle and his representation have a decision to make. With the ability to opt out via player option this summer, he could test free agency or prolong his stint in New Orleans one more season. This season he put up impressive numbers, averaging 21.4 points, 8.7 rebounds, and 3.1 assists on 52.4% from the field. He should garnish attention on the open market. However, this summer, there’s an abundance of big-name talents hitting free agency that will likely eclipse Randle in interest.
This free agency includes names like Kevin Durant, Kemba Walker, Kawhi Leonard, Kyrie Irving, Klay Thompson, Jimmy Butler, and DeMarcus Cousins—just to name a few. It could be wise for Randle to wait another season and hit the market when there’s a higher chance of receiving a lucrative contract with fewer superstars available. Or, he could capitalize on his career season and become a free agent this summer and hope a team throws the bank at him. And if he does, how much would be too much for the Pelicans to pay for his services? Let’s look at what we know about Randle as a player up to this point.
The good
Julius Randle is a force in the paint. He utilizes his strength and physicality to bully his opposition in the low block. His aggressive approach to the game has also begun to receive more respect from the referees. This season, he went to the line a career-best 6.7 times per contest. He’s also developed a solid mid-range jumper, and when he fades off of pick-and-rolls, he can knock down face-up jump shots. And with perimeter shooting as prevalent as it has ever been for big men, he also shot a career-high 34% from deep, be it on just 2.7 attempts per game. Never being one who shies away from attacking the glass, Randle racked up 2.2 offensive boards per game this season as well.