Underrated aspect of Julius Randle's game is key to the Timberwolves' success

By all accounts, Julius Randle's first season with the Minnesota Timberwolves was a successful one. Sure, he got off to a slow start, but he eventually found his groove, and the Wolves made their second straight conference finals. Randle had the best playoffs of his career, averaging 21.7 points, 5.9 rebounds, and 4.9 assists.

One aspect that went underrated about Randle's season and his game in general is his impact as a playmaker. Randle's 4.7 assists led the Timberwolves last season. He was often used as a shot creator and playmaking hub, especially after returning from his injury, where he averaged 5.2 assists.

Notably, when Randle notched eight or more assists, the Wolves had an 8-2 record in the regular season and playoffs combined. Undoubtedly, the T-Wolves will continue to count on Randle as a playmaker this season.

Randle is a highly impactful passer

The Wolves need playmaking around Anthony Edwards to maximize his impact. Mike Conley is turning 38, and Rob Dillingham is only in his second year. Dillingham is poised for a bigger role. Still, the Wolves will need more playmaking outside of these two guards and Edwards himself. That's where Randle comes in.

Randle's ability to take pressure off Edwards as both a creator and a playmaker is infinitely valuable. While Randle was impressive as a playmaker, he could reach another level this season. Randle has notched more than five assists three times, all with the New York Knicks, and he may exceed this threshold again.

As a bruising driver and interior force, Randle especially thrives as a drive-and-kick passer. When the defense collapses on him more often than not, Randle finds the open man. He displays impressive discipline and can stop on a dime to make a cross-court pass. Moreover, Randle is a capable passer in transition and throws pinpoint lobs. The Wolves also use him as a dribble handoff hub.

According to CraftedNBA, Randle ranks in the 77th percentile for passer rating, an impressive number for his size and role. Ultimately, Randle is a versatile and impactful playmaker.

Randle's passing is key to the Wolves' success

As the second option, Randle will play a vital role as both a shot creator and playmaker, all while being a versatile defender. Randle's ability to play a point forward-like role and create his own shot gave the Wolves a different element from Karl-Anthony Towns. I'm not trying to dwell on the trade, but that specific difference between the two players is worth noting. The point is that Randle's skill set makes him an ideal fit next to Edwards.

The Wolves will likely have a playmaking-by-committee approach, and Randle will be key to this scheme. Most people know how valuable Randle's shot creation is to the Wolves, but they don't realize the significance of Randle's playmaking. Overall, as Minnesota aims to make a leap to an NBA title, Randle will undoubtedly be crucial in their success as both a creator and playmaker.