NBA All-Star Game 2018-19: All-Star caliber forwards

#5 Julius Randle

Action from Cleveland Cavaliers v New Orleans Pelicans

Leaving the Lakers to bet on himself was a bold move on Randle's part, but by all accounts, he has passed the test with flying colours. Coming off the bench or starting as and when required by the team, Randle is averaging 20.1 points, 9.3 rebounds and 3.0 assists per game.

Capable of lining up at all 3 frontcourt positions (although he's most comfortable at the 4 position), Randle has improved by leaps and bounds as a team defender this season. While he was always a pretty good defender to use in switch-heavy schemes, he was often guilty of getting overpowered and outmaneuvered by centers bigger than himself.

If only the Lakers had him this season, chances are that they wouldn't be out of the playoff picture (as they are at this point in time). As things stand, the Pelicans look set to sign him to lineup alongside AD for the long term.