Just a few days ago, the Minnesota Timberwolves agreed to a blockbuster trade that sent long-time center Karl-Anthony Towns to the New York Knicks. In return, the Timberwolves have acquired Julius Randle and Donte DiVincenzo. Currently, the trade is not official yet, meaning the details are not confirmed. However, barring some major changes, Towns will play for the Knicks next season. This is a move that many fans are split on. While some believe Towns will elevate the Knicks, who needed a big man, others believe he is not a good fit in their system. Regardless, one of Towns’ former teammates recently stood up for him, making a bold claim for his first season in New York.
On Monday, current Los Angeles Lakers guard D’Angelo Russell tweeted that he thinks Towns will be an All-Star this season.
KAT gonna be an All-Star #CarryOn
— D’Angelo Russell (@Dloading) September 30, 2024
Towns and Russell were teammates in Minnesota from 2020 to 2023. The duo spent parts of four seasons together.
Past Karl-Anthony Towns Teammate Makes Big 2024-25 Prediction
Where Karl-Anthony Towns Stands Among East Centers
Towns is a four-time NBA All-Star. Additionally, he made the All-Star team last season. Saying he will make another All-Star team on its own is not a bold opinion. In the Eastern Conference, only Joel Embiid clearly ranks above Towns. However, there are other major centers in the conference as well who could spoil Towns’ All-Star opportunity. This includes Bam Adebayo, Jarrett Allen, and Myles Turner. Additionally, if he returns early enough from his injury, Kristaps Porzingis could have a chance to make the All-Star team next year as well.
Regardless, the former Timberwolves big man is one of the best centers in the league. While his defense is shaky, he provides a lot on the court, especially on the offensive side of the ball. For a team that prides itself on two-way play, it is unclear how well Towns will fit in New York. However, he immediately becomes the best center option they have.
The Last Word On Towns and the New York Knicks
How Towns plays in New York is something worth monitoring all season long. He is unquestionably a great player, but there is genuine concern about whether he is the right center for the Knicks. Regardless, there is a lot to be optimistic about. Last season, Towns averaged 21.8 points and shot 50.4% from the field. This includes a tremendous 41.6% mark from behind the line. Adding Towns to the team gives the Knicks another legitimate weapon on offense. Especially considering that they are trying to make a serious NBA Finals push, this may turn out to be the right move after all.
As for a potential All-Star appearance, it is likely that Towns gets it. He is arguably the second-best center in the Eastern Conference now. However, it is fair to assume that Towns does not care too much about earning an All-Star nod. Instead, he is likely aiming to help the Knicks win their first championship since 1973.
