The New York Knicks have made a major move, finally securing an All-Star player via trade, but the reaction from league insiders has been far from what one might expect. In a blockbuster deal, Karl-Anthony Towns was traded from the Minnesota Timberwolves to the Knicks last week, marking a significant shift in both teams’ rosters.
The Knicks sent Julius Randle and Donte DiVincenzo to Minnesota as part of the exchange. Additionally, New York landed Keita Bates-Diop and a protected first-round draft pick from the Detroit Pistons in the deal.
On the surface, the Knicks appear to have come out on top by acquiring the best player in the trade, Towns, who is a four-time All-Star and one of the most versatile big men in the NBA. However, according to ESPN’s Brian Windhorst, executives across the league are seeing things differently. In a report on Thursday, Windhorst shared that many NBA insiders believe the Timberwolves might actually have gotten the better end of the deal.
“I was kind of surprised over the last week at how many executives I talked to who felt like the Timberwolves won this trade, which is not something you would expect to hear when most people would agree the best player in the trade went to the Knicks,” Windhorst revealed. He explained that the reaction is largely due to Minnesota’s ability to rebalance their roster, particularly with the additions of Randle and DiVincenzo.
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For the Timberwolves, the trade provides a strategic opportunity to reset their lineup and create more flexibility moving forward. Windhorst noted that by bringing in Randle, Minnesota gains a proven scorer and rebounder, while DiVincenzo adds depth and reliable shooting off the bench.
The move also allows the team to give their lottery pick, Rob Dillingham, more time to develop without immediate pressure, providing valuable breathing room for their young talent.
Beyond the on-court adjustments, a major factor in Minnesota’s decision to move Towns was financial. Towns, 28, is about to begin the first year of a massive four-year, $220 million contract extension. By trading him, the Timberwolves have significantly reduced their long-term payroll obligations.
This is especially important considering Minnesota was on track to exceed the NBA’s second luxury tax apron of $188.9 million, which imposes harsh penalties on teams that spend above that threshold. The trade gives the Timberwolves a clearer path to get below the second apron in the near future, easing financial strain and potentially positioning them for future flexibility.
While fans in Minnesota might be disappointed to see their franchise star depart, league executives recognize that this trade could benefit the Timberwolves in the long run. Shedding Towns’ massive contract provides them with more options to build a balanced roster, and the team may be better positioned to succeed in the future.
Though they have parted ways with an All-Star, the Wolves may have set the foundation for a more sustainable future, both on the court and financially.
As for the Knicks, while they’ve added a star, the pressure is now on to see how Towns fits into their system and whether his addition can elevate the team into championship contention. Only time will tell which side truly comes out on top in this high-profile trade.
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