BREAKING NEWS: Knicks reopen a multi-millions dollar deal on Minnesota Timberwolves key star

In the New York Knicks’ camp, head coach Tom Thibodeau has a notable connection with Minnesota Timberwolves’ star Karl-Anthony Towns, stemming from Thibodeau’s previous stint with the Timberwolves. This existing relationship hints at potential synergy, although Towns’ fit with the Knicks remains uncertain.

With the off-season approaching, there’s speculation that Minnesota might consider trading Towns despite his All-Star-level performance, including an impressive 41.6% three-point shooting percentage. For the Knicks, Towns could be a valuable acquisition.

Last season, Towns posted strong numbers, averaging 21.8 points, 8.3 rebounds, and three assists, with shooting percentages of .504 from the field and an effective field goal percentage of .575. While Towns’ offensive skills are clear, there are debates when comparing him to Julius Randle.

Pursuing Towns would likely mean the Knicks parting with Randle, an All-NBA player and key power forward. An anonymous NBA executive suggested to Heavy.com that the Knicks are expected to be interested if the Timberwolves decide to trade Towns, saying, “That team (the Timberwolves) is in flux. They want to keep building off what they did this year, but just can’t afford it. So I would think it is 100% expected that if they move on from him when the dust settles, the Knicks are going to be there.”

Knicks’ Financial Decisions and Off-season Targets

Towns is about to sign a significant four-year, $221 million designated veteran extension, which will bring a hefty $49.35 million cap hit for the 2024–25 season when he turns 29. His salary will increase annually, reaching $61.2 million by 2027. In contrast, Randle’s more affordable four-year, $117 million contract ends after the 2025–26 season, with a $30.1 million option and a $28.9 million cost next season at age 30—a notable saving compared to Towns’ deal.

From a strategic standpoint, considering both financial and performance factors, Randle appears to be the more economical choice, especially given his comparable contributions to their respective teams. Randle has demonstrated his value, particularly in postseason play when healthy, unlike Towns, who struggled significantly against the Dallas Mavericks in the playoffs.

Given these considerations, the Knicks might prefer to keep Randle rather than pursue the expensive acquisition of Towns, especially considering the financial implications and the potential risk of regression associated with Towns’ future substantial salaries.