Knicks Trade Rumors: New York Keeping Tabs on Karl-Anthony Towns

As the New York Knicks' search for a superstar continues, they're said to be "monitoring" the situation around Karl-Anthony Towns of the Minnesota Timberwolves.

The New York Knicks have their fair share of influential players, but the team has been on the lookout for another star, one that would make them true forces to be reckoned with in a top-heavy Eastern Conference.

The Knicks turned down a chance to trade for Donovan Mitchell last offseason because it would have taken a fair amount of picks and young talent. Even though the star guard reportedly wanted to return home to New York, the Knicks were hesitant, and the Cleveland Cavaliers got to Mitchell first. 

Knicks management might have another swing at Mitchell if rumors of disgruntlement in Cleveland prove to be true. But a far more affordable and realistic option lingers in Minnesota Timberwolves center Karl-Anthony Towns. If the Knicks added another star big man, it would open up the offense and give everyone else more opportunities as a result of Towns' presence in the paint.

Towns (32) drives against Knicks center Mitchell Robinson / Brad Penner, USA TODAY SPORTS

Despite Towns signing an extension last year that takes effect next season, the Knicks will be 'monitoring his situation', according to Stefan Bondy of the New York Post. Knicks head coach Tom Thibodeau praised Towns' skillset as the Timberwolves prepare to visit Madison Square Garden for an exhibition clash on Saturday night (7:30 p.m. ET, MSG2).

“When you look at an offensive player, particularly a big, the skill set that he has, I think we all saw, to win the 3-point Contest and stuff like that, there’s nothing he can’t do offensively," Thibodeau said. "He has continued to get better I think. He had some injuries to deal with. I watched him play in FIBA, and he played really well there. He’s really, really gifted.”

Thibodeau would know: prior to joining the Knicks, Thibodeau oversaw three of Towns' first four NBA seasons as Minnesota's head coach (2016-19).

Although the star big man is not that likely to leave Minnesota after signing his extension, it doesn't hurt for the Knicks to at least be monitoring the situation, as anything could happen. One thing is for certain: if the Knicks were able to get Towns, they would be a way more dangerous team than they already are.