Julius Randle was the subject of multiple trade rumors ahead of the deadline, and the ongoing speculation, along with his disappointment at not being selected to the All-Star team, appeared to affect his recent performances, according to Jon Krawczynski of The Athletic.
Minesotta Timberwolves head coach Chris Finch noted that the veteran forward didn’t quite look like himself during that stretch and emphasized how important Randle is to the team’s overall success.
“Julius is a guy who plays with his heart on his sleeve,” Finch said. “He was kind of not himself recently. … He’s so important for us in so many ways. We just need him to come back to the pack, if you will.”
Randle has since responded with strong performances, beginning with a triple-double effort, 18 points, 12 rebounds, and 10 assists, in a win over Atlanta.
He followed that showing with what Krawczynski described as his best game of the season in a victory against Portland, scoring 41 points, including 23 in the fourth quarter, while also contributing seven rebounds and playing focused defense.
Teammates believe Randle’s aggressive and versatile style is essential if Minnesota hopes to make another deep postseason run.
“It gets everybody going. He can get as many triple-doubles as anybody,” Naz Reid said.
“He plays fast, plays strong, spaces the floor, he gets everybody else involved. I think that’s the key to winning, as well, just being super aggressive while also making sure everybody around you comes with you.”
Trade rumors and not being named All-Star were hard on Julius Randle. The Wolves know they need him to be himself to make a deep playoff run. Story: https://t.co/RPL55dkhHJ
— Hoops Rumors (@HoopsRumors) February 16, 2026
