Julius Randle Is Making an All-Star Case That’s Hard to Ignore
With the NBA set to unveil the 2026 All-Star Game reserves on Sunday, players around the league had one final chance on Saturday to make a statement. Julius Randle didn’t just make one - he practically shouted it.
In Minnesota’s 131-114 win over Memphis, Randle turned in the kind of performance that screams All-Star caliber. The 31-year-old forward dropped 27 points on an ultra-efficient 11-of-17 shooting, including 4-of-5 from deep. Add in seven rebounds, seven assists, and a dominant first quarter that helped the Timberwolves jump out to an early lead, and you’ve got a player who’s not just playing well - he’s playing like he belongs on the league’s midseason showcase stage.
And here’s the thing: this wasn’t some one-off explosion. Randle has been stringing together performances like this all season long.
The Numbers Back It Up
Durability? Check.
Randle has suited up for all 50 of Minnesota’s games - a rarity in today’s NBA. Production?
Also check. He’s averaging 22.3 points, 6.9 rebounds, 5.4 assists, and 1.2 steals per game.
Efficiency? You guessed it - check again.
His 49.3% shooting from the field is his best mark since 2018-19, and he’s hitting free throws at a career-high 81.9% clip.
These aren’t just solid numbers - they’re All-Star numbers. And when you pair them with Minnesota’s 31-19 record, good for fifth in the West, it’s hard to argue that the Wolves don’t deserve more than one representative in the All-Star Game.
Anthony Edwards is a lock. That much is clear.
But Randle has been every bit as vital to Minnesota’s success this season. He’s provided veteran leadership, consistent scoring, and a steady presence in high-leverage moments.
He’s been the kind of player who elevates a team from good to dangerous.
The Media May Be Overlooking Him - But They Shouldn’t Be
Despite the resume, Randle’s name hasn’t shown up on many media All-Star ballots. Some analysts have left him off entirely, citing the depth of talent in the Western Conference. Others have gone as far as to say he’d be a lock if he were playing in the East.
That’s the tricky part of All-Star selections - it’s not just about who deserves to go, but who they’re competing against for those precious seven reserve spots. Still, it’s hard to look at what Randle’s done this season and not see a player who belongs in that conversation.
And if he doesn’t hear his name called on Sunday? There’s still a good chance he ends up in Los Angeles on February 15.
Injuries happen, and when they do, the league tends to reward players who’ve put in the work and produced at a high level all season. Randle fits that bill to a tee.
A Veteran Star in a New Role
This season hasn’t just been about stats for Randle - it’s been about fit. In Minnesota, he’s found a role that allows him to impact the game in multiple ways without having to carry the entire offensive load. He’s playing smarter, more efficient basketball, and his decision-making has been a key part of the Wolves’ success.
He’s also embraced the physicality of the Western Conference, using his size and strength to create mismatches in the post and stretch the floor with a reliable jumper. He’s not forcing shots - he’s picking his spots, and it’s paying off.
Bottom Line
Julius Randle has done everything you want from an All-Star candidate. He’s produced.
He’s stayed on the floor. He’s helped his team win.
And on Saturday night, with the spotlight just a little brighter, he delivered.
Now, it’s up to the league to decide if that’s enough. But whether he hears his name on Sunday or gets the nod later as an injury replacement, one thing is clear: Julius Randle is playing like an All-Star.