Knicks to acquire Karl-Anthony Towns from Timberwolves in blockbuster trade

The New York Knicks have acquired four-time All-Star Karl-Anthony Towns from the Minnesota Timberwolves in exchange for Julius Randle, Donte DiVincenzo, and a future first-round draft pick via the Detroit Pistons.

Towns, who spent nine years with the Timberwolves, was the No. 1 overall pick in the 2015 NBA Draft and averaged 21.8 points and 8.3 rebounds per game in the 2023-24 season, returning to All-Star form after a knee injury sidelined him for much of the previous season. He expressed being “stunned” by the trade, especially since he was preparing for a highly anticipated season after the Timberwolves reached the Western Conference Finals.

Towns’ acquisition marks the end of an era in Minnesota, where he was a key figure, earning accolades such as Rookie of the Year and four All-Star selections. During his time with the Timberwolves, he was also active in the community, organizing charity events.

For the Knicks, Towns represents the type of player they have long sought and completes a roster already strengthened by the addition of Mikal Bridges and the re-signing of OG Anunoby. After winning 50 games last season, the team aims to leverage Towns’ talent, especially with Mitchell Robinson out until December following ankle surgery.

On the other side, the Timberwolves aim to maximize financial flexibility and build around Anthony Edwards, who is seen as the future of the team. Randle and DiVincenzo could provide the necessary skills to fill the gap left by Towns, with Randle’s ability to score in half-court situations and DiVincenzo, who was pursued by the Timberwolves during the 2023 free agency, adding defensive depth and shooting ability.