Paul Pierce Sparks Outrage With Demeaning Comments on Knicks’ Julius Randle

The New York Knicks have begun their 2021-22 campaign on the most thrilling note. In a humdinger of a clash, Tom Thibodeau and co. edged out the Boston Celtics 138-134. The more favored Celtics stumbled on their initial hurdle, courtesy of some stunning performances from Julius Randle and Evan Fournier. Randle delivered on the big stage, contrary to what former player Paul Pierce opined before the season commenced.

26-year-old Randle was the star attraction in the Knicks‘ double overtime victory on Wednesday. The center-forward stood up in the clutch moments, proving to be a menace for the Celtics defense. He scored 35 points in the high scoring encounter. Not many have favored New York to be contenders this year. And the powerhouse will aim to prove his critics wrong, including 44-year-old former Celtics star Pierce himself.

TORONTO, ONTARIO – APRIL, 18: Washington Wizards forward Paul Pierce (34) cheers on his team during their overtime win over the Toronto Raptors during game one action on April 18, 2015 in Toronto, Ontario. (Photo by Jonathan Newton / The Washington Post via Getty Images)

Paul Pierce feels Knicks’ Julius Randle can’t be a 1-A superstar

In his two decades in the NBA, Paul Pierce was a 10-time All-star and an NBA champion. Thus, he knows what it takes to be a top gun in the league. Meanwhile, Randle has had seven seasons in the NBA before the current one, gradually improving year upon year. Before the 2021-22 campaign kicked off, the veteran Pierce appeared on the ‘Showtime Basketball’ podcast. He had a lot to say about the Knicks and whether or not Randle can elevate himself to the next level.

Upon being asked if the young Knicks sensation can turn it up a notch, Pierce said “Nah.” He firmly asserted that Randle, who averages around 17.5 points in his career, can’t lead a side to titles. “You know he’ll never be a 1-A superstar, you know. We understand that, but he made the All-star team last year. Yeah but he’s a good complement to that 1-A star,” quoted Pierce.

Julius Randle put the Knicks on his back to survive in 2OT at the garden pic.twitter.com/CDmmyNLLca

— SportsCenter (@SportsCenter) October 21, 2021

Do you think Julius Randle can burn down all his critics this year? Along with the likes of Fournier and the other young guns, New York might just be the dark horses this year. How far do you see the side going? Let us know.

READ MORE: Paul Pierce Explains What Anthony Davis Needs to Learn From LeBron James to Prevent Injuries

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