Julius Randle has entered health and safety protocols, just as the Knicks were nearing full strength following a COVID outbreak.
Randle has been ruled out for Friday night's game against the Thunder, and per the league's new rules, can return in as soon as six days if he meets the testing requirements and is not symptomatic. New York has three games over the next six days.
Randle looked sluggish for the second straight game on Wednesday night, logging just five points before he and the rest of the starters were benched for the entire fourth quarter, when the second unit mounted a comeback and secured a win over the Pistons. Randle has shot 2-for-11 on Wednesday, and has shot just 38 percent from the floor over his last 11 games.
Head coach Tom Thibodeau told reporters on Wednesday that the reigning Most Improved Player is "nicked up," but didn't specify what he was battling during what has been a disappointing season.
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