New York Knicks Criticized For Karl-Anthony Towns Trade

Nearly a year after acquiring Karl-Anthony Towns from the Minnesota Timberwolves, the New York Knicks received a "C-" trade grade from Bleacher Report's Grant Hughes. Towns, the 2015 top draft pick, spent nine seasons with Minnesota—reaching the Western Conference Finals in his final year there—before the blockbuster move. Though both teams returned to the Conference Finals this season, Hughes criticized Towns' playoff performance alongside Jalen Brunson.

Hughes noted that while the Knicks' regular-season offensive rating (119.5) and net rating (+5.2) improved when Towns shared the floor with Brunson, their synergy "nearly disappeared" in the playoffs. Opponents exploited defensive weaknesses in pick-and-roll coverage involving the duo, resulting in worse defensive metrics. Data revealed New York performed better with either star playing solo than both together during postseason games.

The analysis highlights concerns about Towns' hefty contract—paying $53.1 million next season, $57.1 million in 2026-27, and $61 million in 2027-28—which Hughes called "among the hardest to move in the league." With three years remaining on Towns' deal, the Knicks face pressure to maximize his partnership with Brunson before the latter potentially declines. The organization has significant financial and strategic investments in the duo and requires Towns to elevate his playoff impact to justify the trade.