The Minnesota Timberwolves shockingly traded Karl-Anthony Towns to the Knicks on the eve of the season. Things happened quickly and even KAT barely got a heads up about the deal. Minnesota had financial motives and saw a chance to move the four-time All-Star for a hefty return.
The Timberwolves are finally finding their footing after the trade. They have won six of their last seven to move to 14-11 on the season. They are tied for sixth in the Western Conference and still believe they can compete for a championship. Julius Randle may be back on the trade block before the deadline, but Minnesota wants to win now.
Things changed in New York. The Knicks needed a center, but last season’s biggest strength is gone with KAT at the five. They are not the Tom Thibodeau team fans are used to, and New York is learning a key fact about employing Towns.
Knicks are no longer an elite defense with Karl-Anthony Towns at the five
New York was ninth in defensive rating last season. They were in the top 11 in three of Thibs’ four seasons leading the Knicks. The long-time head coach is known for his defense, but New York is 16th in defensive rating so far and is ten points per 100 possessions behind the number one ranked Thunder.
The opposition has a slightly better offensive rating with KAT on the bench per Basketball-Reference, but the Knicks' lack of depth is to blame. They went all-in trading for Mikal Bridges and Towns. With Mitchell Robinson out, the Knicks do not have a trusted backup center.
KAT has been a positive in New York. He is an elite shooter and floor spacer. Towns has formed an elite pick-and-roll duo with Jalen Brunson, which has the Knicks sitting third in offensive rating. They are not a traditional Thibs’ team, but the Knicks are firmly in the race at the top of the East.
Timberwolves fans know about his elite offense and problematic defense. It is why they acquired Rudy Gobert and moved KAT to the four. Minnesota did not want to rely on Towns to protect the rim and anchor their defense. Gobert is elite at that and playing the four opened up more energy for Towns to dominate on offense.
Karl-Anthony Towns has struggled in the playoffs throughout his NBA career. The Knicks have their eyes on title contention but may be in for another realization when the games matter most.
Minnesota Timberwolves fans spent nine years watching KAT. They know his faults too well and are not surprised to see him struggling to anchor the Knicks’ defense. Hopefully, Towns can change the narrative in the playoffs, but Minnesota supporters know that is unlikely.
The 29-year-old is what he is at this stage. There are massive positives and scary negatives. The Knicks should have known what they signed up to acquire.