As NBA training camps are set to open on Monday, the New York Knicks have reportedly made a significant trade involving All-Star big man Karl-Anthony Towns. According to sources from The Athletic, New York acquired Towns from the Minnesota Timberwolves, sending forward Julius Randle, guard Donte DiVincenzo, and a first-round pick (via Detroit) in return.
The deal also involves the Charlotte Hornets, who are said to be acting as a crucial third team, taking on DaQuan Jeffries and draft compensation to help navigate the salary cap implications associated with the trade.
Towns, a four-time All-Star entering his 10th season, has shown no signs of discontent with the Timberwolves despite challenges in previous seasons leading up to their run to the Western Conference finals last spring. Active in the community and willing to let younger star Anthony Edwards take the lead, Towns has adapted to a new role, moving to a stretch power forward position after the Timberwolves acquired center Rudy Gobert two years ago. This trade comes as a surprise just days before the start of training camp, and it’s important to note that Towns did not request the trade during his nine years with the franchise.
In return, the Timberwolves gain an All-Star power forward in Randle and a sharp-shooting DiVincenzo, who had a standout season, along with a first-round pick to help offset the earlier draft picks given up in the Gobert trade.
Minnesota’s president of basketball operations, Tim Connelly, is known for his bold decisions, as evident in the high-profile Gobert trade. This latest move aims to bolster their chances as they strive to advance in the playoffs amid strong competition in the Western Conference.