The Minnesota Timberwolves are trading Karl-Anthony Towns to the New York Knicks for Julius Randle, Donte DiVincenzo, and a first-round draft pick, marking a significant shift for both franchises, according to a source familiar with the transaction reported Friday night.
Towns, a four-time All-Star and one of the NBA’s most skilled shooting big men, has consistently shown loyalty to the Timberwolves, the team that selected him first overall in 2015. Despite facing challenges in previous seasons, he remained optimistic following Minnesota’s recent deep playoff run.
Known for his community involvement in the Twin Cities and his willingness to support rising star Anthony Edwards, Towns seemed taken aback by the trade just days before training camp. His adaptability was evident when he transitioned to a stretch power forward role after the Wolves acquired center Rudy Gobert two years ago.
In a recent interview with the Associated Press, Towns expressed enthusiasm about the upcoming season and the Timberwolves’ prospects after their 2023-24 playoff journey ended in a five-game series against Dallas.
The Timberwolves will need to be prepared for their matchup against the Knicks on December 19. They also have an exhibition game in New York on October 13 and will face the Knicks again in the regular season at Madison Square Garden on January 17.
Having entered the league at just 19, Towns has experienced significant changes in his nine seasons with the Timberwolves, including five different head coaches and seven basketball operations leaders. His journey began under Flip Saunders, who sadly passed away shortly after drafting him.
Returning to his New Jersey roots, Towns will reunite with coach Tom Thibodeau, who previously coached him for two and a half seasons in Minnesota, providing a familiar environment as he adjusts to his new role.
Tim Connelly, Minnesota’s president of basketball operations, has a history of making bold decisions, as seen in the significant trade for Gobert. This latest move aims to enhance the team’s playoff aspirations amid stiff competition in the Western Conference.
The Timberwolves will receive a three-time All-Star in Randle, along with sharpshooter DiVincenzo, who is coming off a standout season, and a first-round pick to help replenish their draft assets after the Gobert trade.
Randle’s recovery from shoulder surgery will be a key storyline during the preseason. He missed New York’s playoff run and is expected to be re-evaluated soon. Thibodeau has indicated optimism about Randle’s readiness for training camp.
With the recent maximum contract extension for Edwards and significant financial commitments, the Timberwolves were facing challenges under the new collective bargaining agreement. Additionally, the ownership situation is uncertain, as Glen Taylor’s sale to partners Marc Lore and Alex Rodriguez is set for arbitration later this year.
In New York, Towns can return to his preferred center position, filling a critical gap left by Mitchell Robinson, who is recovering from ankle surgery. Isaiah Hartenstein’s departure to Oklahoma City has further emphasized the Knicks’ need for a strong presence in the paint, making Towns’ addition timely for a roster already led by All-Star Jalen Brunson.
