Karl-Anthony Towns reflects on Knicks-Timberwolves trade a year later

The New York Knicks scored a commanding 137-114 win against the Minnesota Timberwolves on Wednesday night. This matchup carried extra meaning, given the 2024 trade that sent Karl-Anthony Towns to New York in exchange for Julius Randle and Donte DiVincenzo.

More than a year since the blockbuster move, Towns continues to look back fondly on his time in Minnesota, where he started his NBA career after being drafted first overall in 2015.

Towns on his past and present

"You feel more like a Knick now after what we went through last year to get to the heights we went to. But it's weird when you see that Timberwolves jersey, especially them fire black ones y'all got. Not being able to see Towns on the back, it's a weird feeling. I love those guys, I love that locker room to death. I'm willing to do anything for them, even if it wasn't about basketball."

— Karl-Anthony Towns, via The Athletic’s Jon Krawczynski

Despite new loyalties in New York, Towns’ affection for his former team remains evident. His comments reflect the bond formed during nine seasons in Minnesota before moving east.

Impact of the trade

So far, the trade has delivered positive outcomes for both franchises. The Knicks and Timberwolves each advanced to their respective Conference Finals in the 2024–25 season, showing the mutual benefits of the deal. As both teams continue to evolve, fans will be watching closely to see which side ultimately gains the upper hand — and perhaps secures an NBA championship.

Author’s summary

The 2024 Knicks-Timberwolves trade reshaped both teams, and Karl-Anthony Towns still holds deep affection for Minnesota even as he thrives with New York.

Sporting News — 2025-11-06