Lakers Predicted to Trade for $220 Million 24.4 PPG All-Star

Rumors about the New York Knicks potentially moving Karl-Anthony Towns are largely unfounded. Despite a poor defensive showing in the Eastern Conference Finals, Towns is considered one of the NBA's better centers and would attract league-wide interest if available. Bleacher Report identified the Los Angeles Lakers as a potential landing spot should the Knicks make him available, suggesting Towns could fit within the Lakers' trade budget using their assets and salary-matching pieces. While not a traditional lob threat for Luka Dončić, his floor-stretching ability is seen as potentially beneficial.

Despite the Lakers' recent roster improvements, including adding Dončić, they face defensive challenges that Towns wouldn't necessarily solve. The Athletic reported that Knicks players and coaches were frustrated with Towns' defensive habits throughout the season, citing poor communication and incorrect coverages. Players were concerned he didn't grasp the importance of consistent defensive execution.

While the Lakers might value Towns' offensive output (42% from three-point range, averaging 24.4 points and 12.8 rebounds), his defensive limitations are significant. Former Warriors GM Bob Myers suggested the Lakers need to get creative at center, noting LeBron James could play the position like Draymond Green, but warned it's physically taxing and wears players out. Myers acknowledged finding a impactful big man who fits with Dončić and LeBron is difficult.

Myers implied acquiring a player of Towns' caliber would be a smarter solution than relying heavily on LeBron at center. Whether the Lakers pursue Towns is uncertain, but they are expected to be in the market for a big man this offseason, as failing to find one could create issues.