The Knicks' Julius Randle in the third quarter against the Atlanta Hawks in Game 2 on May 26, 2021, at MSG. Credit: AP/Elsa
ATLANTA — While Trae Young was subjected to profane chants, criticism from New York City’s mayor and even spit on by a since-banned fan at Madison Square Garden, there was nothing but love for Julius Randle.
But while Young responded with a pair of sensational performances, Randle struggled through his first two playoff games. Handed his Most Improved Player trophy and serenaded with "M-V-P" chants from the home crowd, he struggled through the adoration and the Hawks defense.