Karl-Anthony Towns is still adjusting to life with the New York Knicks and he's starting to feel at home after his first practice. In a chat with the media this week, the All-Star big man reflected on his first moments with his new team and what he told them in his debut practice.
"First thing I did. I walked up to Jalen [Brunson] and introduced myself. Said that my name was Karl. I know that was a struggle for him," said Towns. "It’s not my home. It’s our home. These guys have done something special."
He also sent a special message directly to Knicks fans, hying them up for the upcoming season.
“Hey Knicks fans, let’s get to work. See you at The Garden!”
Towns was part of the summer's biggest trade: the deal that sent him to the Knicks for Julius Randle, Donte DiVincenzo, forward Keita Bates-Diop, and a future first-round pick. The Knicks, led by GM Leon Rose, apparently used a loophole to add Towns and they are hoping it pays off with a championship run.
The 28-year-old big man was initially selected first overall in 2015 and he earned his way into a max contract with the franchise. He started as the face and leader of the Timberwolves and served in that role for years before Anthony Edwards' arrival in 2020.
With Edwards, Towns had to accept a secondary role on the team and it resulted in one of his best seasons yet as a pro with averages of 21.8 points, 8.3 rebounds, and 3.0 assists per game on 50.4% shooting. It was enough to lead the Wolves to the third-best record in the West and their first trip to the Conference Finals since the Kevin Garnett era.
Of course, Towns never had a chance to see things through in Minnesota before he was traded. With just weeks to go before opening night, he was unexpectedly sent to the Knicks and now he'll have to start fresh with a whole new team.
Despite being the most decorated player on the Knicks roster, Towns wanted to make it clear from day one that he was not coming to take over leadership duties. He only wants to help improve what's already been built and to support All-Star guard Jalen Brunson as best as he can.
After finishing 2nd in the East last season (at 50-32), the Knicks began this summer thinking they were just a piece or two away from title contention. Now, with Mikal Bridges and Karl-Antony Towns, the Knicks have ambitions of forming a new dynasty in the East.
Only time will tell how this transition pans out for Karl, but there's no going back now. As a member of the Knicks, the star big man has a chance to create something special and he's committed to doing everything he can to ensure that he's a success for his new team.
As a star joining a brand new situation, he's also doing his best to avoid stepping on anyone's toes and staying in his lane until he finds his place on the roster.
