The Knicks’ acquisition of Karl-Anthony Towns via trade is set to significantly shake up their spacing and overall floorplan this upcoming season. While Julius Randle provided a more physically imposing presence inside, Towns brings his versatility and skill set to the mix. He may not be as physically dominant as Randle, but Towns is more than capable of providing double-digit rebounds on any given night.
Towns was primarily a center early in his career, but has moved to the power forward position over the past two seasons. This change has seen his rebounding average drop to 8.2 per game during that time. However, Towns has consistently posted double-digit rebounds in his first six seasons, and the Knicks are eager to capitalize on that rebounding prowess next season.
In addition to rebounding, Towns has the potential to be an even more impactful point guard alongside the Knicks’ superstar point guard, Jalen Brunson. Similar to how the team utilized Isaiah Hartenstein at center last season, expecting him to be a physical presence on the boards and a key distributor, Towns has the ability to fulfill a similar role, if not surpass it.
Towns averaged a career-high 4.8 assists during the 2022-23 season, proving his ability to distribute the ball effectively. This season, he’ll look to replicate or even improve on that number, especially with one of the NBA’s most potent starting units surrounding him. With Brunson coming off an elite season, averaging 28.7 points and 6.7 assists (both career highs), Towns’ play could further unlock the potential of the Knicks’ offense.