New York Knicks forward Julius Randle is set to be sidelined for several weeks due to a dislocated shoulder, according to sources within the league. The injury occurred during Saturday's victory over the Miami Heat, leading Randle to undergo an MRI. Currently, the Knicks remain hopeful that Randle's injury won't require season-ending surgery.

Since the acquisition of OG Anunoby from the Toronto Raptors a month ago, the Knicks have experienced a surge in performance, boasting an impressive 12-2 record with Anunoby in the starting lineup. This impressive stretch includes victories against formidable opponents such as the Minnesota Timberwolves, Denver Nuggets, and Philadelphia 76ers. Randle, who has been playing at an All-Star level during this period, proves to be a crucial asset to the team.

Speaking about Randle's injury, Knicks wing Josh Hart expressed optimism, stating, "That has us in good spirits, that he's not gonna be out too long. So we just gotta make sure that we kinda stay afloat during that time. I think we have the pieces to do that. So we gotta focus on that and hopefully he gets well soon."

Fortunately for the Knicks, their upcoming schedule appears to be favorable. With a current record of 29-17, placing them fourth in the Eastern Conference, they face the struggling Charlotte Hornets (10-34) on Monday evening. Following this, they will enjoy six consecutive home games, while the eight-day All-Star break also provides additional time for Randle to recover.

The Knicks have yet to announce who will fill Randle's starting position, although Josh Hart seems to be the favored candidate, with Anunoby shifting to power forward. However, even if Hart or another player steps in, it is widely acknowledged that no one can replicate Randle's production on the court.

Despite the setback, the Knicks have established themselves as one of the toughest teams in the NBA, particularly at Madison Square Garden. Randle's physicality and dominance on both ends of the court have contributed significantly to their strong identity. With impressive season averages of 24.0 points, 9.2 rebounds, and 5.0 assists, Randle has made a compelling case for his third All-Star selection.

Teammate Donte DiVincenzo echoed similar sentiments to Hart, emphasizing the collective effort required to compensate for Randle's absence. DiVincenzo acknowledged the challenge of filling Randle's role, particularly in rebounding, stating, "It's going to take two or three guys to get the big dudes off the boards. The guards - Jalen (Brunson) and myself, Quentin (Grimes) - we're going to have to fly in there."

The injury occurred in the final moments of the Knicks' 125-109 victory over the Heat, as Randle attempted to jump over Heat rookie Jaime Jaquez Jr. during a drive to the basket. Ultimately, Randle fell on his right shoulder, resulting in a dislocation.

When asked about his level of concern regarding Randle's injury, Knicks coach Tom Thibodeau simply replied, "Very."

As the Knicks move forward without one of their key players, the team will rely on their collective strength and the depth of their roster to maintain their momentum in pursuit of a successful season.