Stephen A. Smith has never been shy with his opinions, and just minutes before Game 5 of the Western Conference Finals, he had a clear-cut message for Julius Randle: “If you’re Julius Randle … shoot the three or be in the paint and play bully ball.” It’s classic Stephen A.—loud, passionate, and not wrong.
Randle, who’s been on a redemption arc with the Timberwolves since being traded from the Knicks, has embraced a new role with Minnesota. No longer the go-to guy, he’s become a versatile threat—facilitating, rebounding, and playing with controlled aggression. His Game 3 triple-double against the Warriors and a playoff career-high 31 points in Game 4 were reminders that this guy can still dominate.
But it’s been a bit of a rollercoaster in the WCF against the Thunder. From 28 points in Game 1 to a dud in Game 2, then bouncing back in Game 3 only to go quiet again in Game 4, Randle’s had a bit of everything. And with the Timberwolves down 3-1, Game 5 could be their last dance.
Smith, who once roasted Randle for being too predictable and one-dimensional with the Knicks, has since changed his tune. Now, he calls Randle “the key” to Minnesota’s championship hopes. If Randle does show up and channels that bully ball energy, the Wolves might force a Game 6.
One thing’s for sure—Stephen A. will be watching, and yelling. Probably both.
(This is a building story…)
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