On the surface, the New York Knicks seemed to have won the blockbuster trade at first glance, landing the best player in Karl-Anthony Towns. But upon closer examination, the Timberwolves might be the true victors. Despite Towns’ All-NBA potential, his recent performance and injuries over the last two seasons suggest a decline in his impact, making Minnesota’s return package much more valuable.
Towns’ Decline and NY’s Gamble
Towns is undoubtedly a big name, but his production over the past two years has been inconsistent. His health concerns have hampered his ability to lead effectively, and while he could potentially return to form, there’s a strong argument that his best days are behind him.
Statistically moving to power forward and getting his offense in different areas seems to have affected him but his usage is similar to two seasons ago and he’s just not as productive. For the Knicks to come out ahead in this trade, Towns must rediscover his old form—a prospect that seems increasingly unlikely at 29 year olds. More realistically, Towns is likely to max out as a slightly improved version of his recent self. Instead of the 26+ PER player he was at 24 and 25 years old, we are more likely to see a low 20’s type type version eve if he improves his 18.8 consistent PER of the last two season with better help and a more familiar position on the court. This creates uncertainty around his ability to lift the Knicks as far as they hope, or need him to with his massive 50 to 60 million dollar contract the next 4 years. Even with his improved defensive support in OG Anunoby and Mikal Bridges I think this will be a failure given his age, contract, recent decline and fit.
Timberwolves Land Better Fit and Depth
Meanwhile, the Timberwolves receive Julius Randle, who is only marginally older (1 year) than Towns but arguably a better fit for Minnesota’s current roster. i’m not sure it’s even arguably. Randle has been a solid performer in New York, offering physicality, scoring, and versatility that Minnesota needs. His game complements the Timberwolves’ up-tempo and physical style, and his contract is much more palatable than Towns’ $62 million salary in the 2027-28 season. He currently has this year and a player option at 30 million next season, that will likely get extended at a more favorable number.
But that’s not all—the Timberwolves also add Donte DiVincenzo, the #91 ranked player in our rating system who will significantly bolster their perimeter defense and shooting on a dirt cheap 11 million dollar contract the next three seasons. DiVincenzo’s value often goes under the radar, but he provides critical depth and two-way capability for a team that didn’t have much. The icing on the cake? A top-13 protected first-round pick from New York, providing Minnesota with future flexibility and potential trade assets. Even Keita Bates-Diop is a useful 2 million dollar cheap depth part.
Financial Flexibility for Minnesota
One of the most significant victories for the Timberwolves in this trade is the financial flexibility it grants them. Towns’ massive contract could have limited their ability to make future moves and invest in key areas of the team. By swapping him for Randle and DiVincenzo, they free up space and maintain the ability to pursue additional talent in the future. Randle’s deal is far more manageable, and DiVincenzo’s contract is affordable, giving them versatility in future transactions and depth.
Skepticism on New York’s Fit and Defense
Even if Towns regains some of his old form, there are valid questions about his fit alongside New York’s current roster. While Anunoby and Bridges provide defensive support, Towns’ defensive limitations have been well documented, and it’s uncertain if New York’s improved perimeter defense will be enough to mask those shortcomings. The Knicks have weakened their overall depth and ratings, particularly in comparison to other top teams in the East.
Cavs Poised to Overtake Knicks
In fact, this trade may have left the door open for other teams, such as the Cleveland Cavaliers, to surpass the Knicks in Eastern Conference rankings. The Cavaliers, now arguably more talented and cohesive, stand to gain from the Knicks’ gamble on Towns. We moved them up above them in our latest Power Rankings.
As you can see by the numbers from last season they are still less talented than several teams behind them. We still ranked them a little higher based on some improvements from Towns season last year as well as continuity and coaching, but it wouldn’t surprise if they slipped. Especially if Towns is the same 19 PER type of player and not the 23+ level one he once was.
Timberwolves Come Out on Top
Ultimately, the Timberwolves walked away with a more balanced and versatile roster. The addition of Randle improves their fit, while DiVincenzo adds depth, and the future draft pick offers more assets for building. Financially, Minnesota benefits by freeing up space and avoiding Towns’ future cap burdens. This trade was a home run for the Wolves—one that sets them up for long-term success while leaving the Knicks to hope for a return to form from Towns that may never come and at a brutal cost.
In the end, Minnesota’s flexibility, depth, and improved roster make them the true winners of this deal.
