The NBA is getting ready to begin but the New York Knicks continue their monster offseason as it has been announced they have agreed to trade with the Minnesota Timberwolves for a blockbuster trade. The New York Knicks receive center Karl-Anthony Towns in exchange for power forward Julius Randle, shooting guard Donte DiVincenzo, and a first-round pick (via the Detroit Pistons). Let’s take a closer look at what this means for both the Minnesota Timberwolves and the New York Knicks as this deal has a lot of ramifications.
Karl-Anthony Towns to the New York Knicks
The New York Knicks have landed another star in a trade this offseason as they now have a starting five of Jalen Brunson, Mikal Bridges, Josh Hart, OG Anunoby and Karl-Anthony Towns. This is something that is interesting as it didn’t really seem he was on the table to be traded until very recently. Towns has a massive contract as he is beginning a four-year, $220 million contract with a player option for the fourth season.
The New York Knicks have always shown interest in KAT but this is something that was not expected. After having a team built on chemistry and grit, it seems like the front office made a significant pivot. The team and Julius Randle were not going to agree to an extension and they seemingly wanted someone who can play well for the next few years down low. KAT is a four-time All-Star and two-time All-NBA player who averages 22.9 points and 10.8 rebounds throughout his career. It will be interesting as the New York Knicks now have a weak bench but an incredible starting lineup. Karl-Anthony Towns is back with coach Tom Thibodeau and it will be interesting to see how they mesh.
Why did the Minnesota Timberwolves make this move?
The Minnesota Timberwolves sneakily had a good deal for themselves here if the rumors about money issues are legitimate. The Timberwolves get power forward Julius Randle on a contract year, a career 37.6% 3-point shooter in Donte DiVincenzo, and a valuable Detroit Pistons first-round pick. Adding DiVincenzo helps mask the age factor of point guard Mike Conley Jr. and plays well with guard Anthony Edwards.
Julius Randle is going to be asked to perform well and now gets that option on a good Western Conference team. This is going to make the Minnesota Timberwolves arguably better despite losing one of their top players.