Julius Randle's NBA Draft Class: Where Are They Now?

Oct 30, 2025 by Jhon Lennon 53 views

Hey guys! Let's take a trip down memory lane and revisit the 2014 NBA Draft, specifically focusing on Julius Randle and his fellow draftees. It's always fun to see where these players ended up and how their careers have unfolded. Some became superstars, some solid role players, and others, unfortunately, faded away. So, let's dive in and see what happened to Julius Randle's draft class!

The 2014 NBA Draft: A Quick Overview

The 2014 NBA Draft was held on June 26, 2014, at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York. This draft was highly anticipated, with several potential franchise cornerstones available. Names like Andrew Wiggins, Jabari Parker, and Joel Embiid were on everyone's lips. Julius Randle, coming out of the University of Kentucky, was also a hot prospect, known for his strength, rebounding, and potential as a versatile scorer. The Cleveland Cavaliers had the first overall pick, thanks to a stroke of lottery luck, and the rest, as they say, is history.

Top Picks and Initial Expectations

Andrew Wiggins (No. 1 overall to Cleveland Cavaliers): Wiggins was touted as the next big thing, drawing comparisons to LeBron James early in his career. His athleticism and scoring ability were undeniable, and the expectations were sky-high. He was quickly traded to the Minnesota Timberwolves, where he spent several seasons as their primary scorer. While he hasn't quite reached the superstar status many predicted, he's had a solid NBA career.
Jabari Parker (No. 2 overall to Milwaukee Bucks): Parker was seen as a polished offensive player with a smooth scoring touch. Unfortunately, his career was plagued by injuries, which hampered his development and prevented him from reaching his full potential. Despite flashes of brilliance, he bounced around several teams and never quite became the star many envisioned.
Joel Embiid (No. 3 overall to Philadelphia 76ers): Embiid's selection was initially met with some skepticism due to his injury history. However, he's since become one of the biggest stars in the NBA. His dominance on both ends of the court has made him a perennial All-Star and MVP candidate. Embiid's journey is a testament to perseverance and the importance of trusting the process.

Julius Randle: A Closer Look

Julius Randle was drafted seventh overall by the Los Angeles Lakers. He entered the NBA with a reputation for being a powerhouse on the court, known for his rebounding prowess and aggressive scoring. Coming from Kentucky, where he played under Coach Calipari, Randle had a solid foundation but needed to refine his skills to thrive in the NBA. His rookie season was cut short due to a broken leg in his first game, a setback that tested his resilience early on. Despite the injury, Randle showed tremendous determination in his rehab, setting the stage for what would become a remarkable NBA journey.

Early Years with the Lakers

Randle's time with the Lakers was a mixed bag. After recovering from his injury, he displayed flashes of his potential, showcasing his ability to score inside and grab rebounds. However, consistency was an issue, and he struggled to find his place on a rebuilding Lakers team. Despite the challenges, Randle's work ethic was evident, and he continued to develop his game. He worked on his shooting, ball-handling, and overall understanding of the game, laying the groundwork for his future success. Although he showed promise, the Lakers decided not to re-sign him after his rookie contract, leading him to explore new opportunities. Those early years were crucial for Randle, teaching him the importance of perseverance, adaptability, and continuous improvement. They shaped him into the player he is today, a testament to his dedication and hard work.

Finding His Stride

After leaving the Lakers, Randle signed with the New Orleans Pelicans, where he had a productive season, showcasing his scoring ability and versatility. This stint proved that he could be a valuable asset to any team, setting the stage for his move to the New York Knicks. It was in New York that Randle truly blossomed into an All-Star caliber player. His aggressive drives, improved shooting, and playmaking ability made him the focal point of the Knicks' offense. Under Coach Tom Thibodeau, Randle's game reached new heights, leading the Knicks to their first playoff appearance in years. His performance earned him the NBA's Most Improved Player award, solidifying his status as one of the league's top players. Randle's story is a great example of how players can evolve and improve with the right opportunity and coaching. His journey from a promising prospect to an All-Star is an inspiration to many, demonstrating that hard work and dedication can lead to remarkable achievements.

Where Are They Now? Other Notable Players from the 2014 Draft

Let's not forget about the other players from the 2014 draft class. Some have had amazing careers, while others have faced various challenges.

Marcus Smart (No. 6 overall to Boston Celtics): Smart has become a defensive stalwart for the Celtics, known for his toughness, hustle, and ability to guard multiple positions. He's a key part of their core and a fan favorite in Boston.
Zach LaVine (No. 13 overall to Minnesota Timberwolves): LaVine has evolved into a high-scoring guard, showcasing his incredible athleticism and shooting ability. He's become a two-time All-Star with the Chicago Bulls and one of the league's premier offensive players.
Jusuf Nurkić (No. 16 overall to Chicago Bulls): Nurkić has established himself as a solid starting center, known for his rebounding, scoring, and physical presence. He's been a valuable contributor for the Portland Trail Blazers.
Clint Capela (No. 25 overall to Houston Rockets): Capela has become a premier rebounder and rim protector, known for his athleticism and efficiency around the basket. He's been a key player for both the Houston Rockets and the Atlanta Hawks.

The Underrated Gems and Draft Sleepers

Every draft has its share of players who were overlooked but went on to have successful careers. Here are a few notable examples from the 2014 draft:

Nikola Jokić (No. 41 overall to Denver Nuggets): Jokić is arguably the biggest steal of the 2014 draft. Selected in the second round, he has become a two-time MVP and one of the most unique and skilled players in NBA history. His passing, scoring, and all-around game have revolutionized the center position.
Jordan Clarkson (No. 46 overall to Washington Wizards): Clarkson has carved out a solid career as a scoring guard, providing instant offense off the bench. He's been a valuable contributor for several teams, including the Lakers and the Utah Jazz.
Spencer Dinwiddie (No. 38 overall to Detroit Pistons): Dinwiddie has emerged as a reliable scoring guard and playmaker. After a slow start to his career, he found success with the Brooklyn Nets and has since become a valuable asset for any team he plays on.

Draft Class Comparisons: How Does 2014 Stack Up?

When comparing the 2014 draft class to others, it's clear that it has produced a mix of high-end talent and solid role players. While it may not be considered one of the all-time great draft classes, it boasts several players who have become All-Stars and key contributors to their respective teams. The success of players like Embiid, Randle, LaVine, and Jokić has made it a memorable class. However, the presence of several players who didn't pan out also highlights the unpredictable nature of the NBA Draft. Overall, the 2014 draft class has had a significant impact on the league, and its legacy will continue to be evaluated as these players' careers progress.