Towns addressed those rumors before the Knicks’ 119-92 blowout win against the Toronto Raptors on Wednesday, according to Stefan Bondy of the New York Post. “I feel like I’ve been in trade rumors a lot, for a long time, for a year, d**n near. That don’t matter to me,” Towns said. The star big man, who was traded from the Minnesota Timberwolves to the Knicks before last season, made it clear that outside noise does not affect his mindset.

“I don’t look at social media or none of that stuff. I focus on the job at hand, which is trying to get wins every single night,” Towns added. “As long as I do that, I do my job, I go home happy and I feel accomplished. I’m not worried about what anybody got to say or what people write or anything like that.” His comments reflected a veteran approach centered on consistency rather than speculation.

For Karl-Anthony Towns, the priority has remained winning with the Knicks above all else. “We only worry about one thing. That’s winning. So I got no reason to go into depth on anything else,” Towns explained. He emphasized that every daily conversation inside the locker room revolves around how the Knicks can improve and how he can continue making sacrifices to help the team reach its best version.

How Karl-Anthony Towns arrived in New York

New York acquired Towns from the Timberwolves on October 2, 2024, as part of a three-team trade that also included the Charlotte Hornets. In that deal, the Knicks sent Julius Randle, Donte DiVincenzo, Keita Bates-Diop, and a 2025 first-round pick to Minnesota, while DaQuan Jeffries, Charlie Brown Jr., Duane Washington Jr., and two second-round picks were routed to Charlotte. The Hornets also received a 2025 second-round pick from the Timberwolves and sent the draft rights to James Nnaji to the Knicks.

Towns delivered an excellent first NBA season in New York, averaging 24.4 points, 12.8 rebounds, and 3.1 assists in 35.0 minutes per game. He shot 52.6 percent from the field and 42.0 percent from three-point range as the Knicks reached the Eastern Conference Finals, establishing himself as a cornerstone piece in the franchise’s resurgence.

The 30-year-old has taken a step back this season. In 44 games, he is averaging 20.2 points, 11.6 rebounds, and 2.9 assists in 31.6 minutes per contest while shooting 46.2 percent from the field and 36.1 percent from beyond the arc, with his numbers declining across the board. Towns could simply be experiencing a down year, but if the trend continues, New York may eventually consider its long-term options before the situation worsens.

The Philadelphia 76ers are expected to have their franchise center available as they close out a five-game road trip on Saturday night. According to NBA Underdog, Philadelphia now lists Joel Embiid as available to play, a positive sign as they prepare to face the Knicks in New York.

On the Knicks side, Karl-Anthony Towns appears on the injury report and will now be updated to play for Saturday night. His final status could play a significant role in determining the flow and outcome of the matchup, especially against a Philadelphia frontcourt anchored by Embiid.

The Knicks enter the game with a 23-11 record and sit in second place in the Eastern Conference. The 76ers, who hold an 18-14 mark, occupy fifth place in the East and look to secure a road victory that would further strengthen their position in the standings.

Knicks injury report

New York lists three players on the injury report, with Towns being the most notable name. Josh Hart is ruled out, which removes an important defensive presence and rebounder from the Knicks‘ rotation.

• Karl-Anthony Towns, illness, questionable
• Josh Hart, right ankle sprain, out
• Landry Shamet, right shoulder sprain, out

76ers injury report

Philadelphia also lists five players on their injury report, with Embiid drawing the most attention. Embiid last played in Thursday’s 123-108 win over the Dallas Mavericks, where he finished with 22 points, six assists, four rebounds, and one block while shooting efficiently from the field.

• Joel Embiid, right knee injury management, probable
• Kelly Oubre Jr., left knee sprain, out
• Trenton Watford, left adductor strain, out
• MarJon Beauchamp, G League two-way, out
• Johni Broome, G League assignment, out

Joel Embiid numbers this season

Across 15 games this NBA season, Embiid is averaging 22.6 points, 6.5 rebounds, 3.3 assists, and 1.3 blocks per game. His rebounding rate sits at a career low, and his shooting efficiency has dipped compared to previous seasons, including 44.1 percent from the field and 23.9 percent from three-point range, as he continues to work back into full rhythm.

Towns is officially listed as questionable for Thursday night’s game due to knee soreness. He is one of several Knicks appearing on the injury report, alongside Mitchell Robinson, OG Anunoby, and Josh Hart, all of whom are also listed as questionable, creating uncertainty around the rotation.

There is a strong possibility that Towns does not play, given the demanding schedule the Knicks currently face. This game represents the front end of a back-to-back set, and workload management becomes a factor as the season continues to intensify.

The Knicks are on the road against Indiana tonight, return home to face Philadelphia on Friday, and then travel again to take on the Miami Heat on Sunday. After playing an additional game in Las Vegas, the Knicks now navigate three games in four nights, putting added strain on the roster.

Towns’ numbers

Towns appears on the injury report several times this season, but he misses only one of the team’s first 25 games. The All-Star big man averages 22.4 points, 11.9 rebounds, and 3.2 assists per game, while shooting 47.4 percent from the field and 36.0 percent from three-point range.

His impact remains significant thanks to his scoring efficiency and floor spacing ability. Towns consistently creates matchup problems for opposing defenses, making his availability a major factor in how the Knicks approach this stretch.

Knicks as NBA Cup champions

On Tuesday, the Knicks extended their winning streak to five games by defeating the San Antonio Spurs 124–113 to capture the NBA Cup. Jalen Brunson earned MVP honors, but Towns’ performance also played a key role in the title run.

Towns delivered a solid outing in the final, posting 16 points, 11 rebounds, and one assist in 30 minutes of action. He contributes on both ends of the floor, helping stabilize the Knicks defensively while reinforcing why his presence remains crucial as the team pushes forward in the regular season.

According to the official NBA injury report, the Knicks have listed Karl-Anthony Towns as probable (right quad strain) for tonight’s matchup against the Bulls. The New York center has been battling a Grade 2 quad strain since before the season started but has managed to play in all four of the team’s games.

Joining the Dominican native on the report are forward Guerschon Yabusele (left knee sprain) as probable, and big man Mitchell Robinson (left ankle injury management) as questionable. Robinson has yet to make his season debut.

Towns is coming off a poor performance in the 121-111 loss to the Bucks, where he managed just eight points on 2-for-12 shooting, along with 12 rebounds, one assist, and one block. His reduced effectiveness is likely connected to the injury he has carried since before the season, visibly impacting his mobility.

Overall, it has been a difficult start for the former Timberwolves star, who is currently averaging 17 points per game while shooting a concerning 35.2% from the field, marking the lowest shooting percentage of his career.

Towns takes blame for Bucks defeat

Towns’ low-scoring output against the Bucks was startling, even considering his current injury; the last time he failed to score 10 or more points was back on February 8, 2025, against the Celtics, where he finished with nine. Following the game, Towns spoke with reporters and took full responsibility for the defeat, acknowledging he struggled on both ends of the floor.

“I gotta do whatever is needed to win. I pressed a little bit too much today [in the second half]. I didn’t do what we needed to do to win tonight. That’s on me and I take full responsibility for that,” Towns told SNYtv’s Ian Begley.

However, Knicks captain and leader Jalen Brunson quickly came to his teammate’s defense amid criticism over his poor performance. Brunson suggested the early weeks would be challenging as the entire team adapts to a new system under coach Mike Brown.

“I talk to [Towns], we talk and it’s a process for all of us,” Brunson said, via the New York Post. “There are gonna be times when things aren’t going one of our ways and it’s on us as teammates to have his back. But at some point, all of us go through a lull in the season. I don’t even want to call it a lull. It’s just we’re still learning and everything is brand new for us. We’re not gonna use that excuse for a long time. But these first couple weeks, it’s still fresh for us”.

Under the leadership of newly appointed head coach Mike Brown, the Knicks have made significant strides since the season’s outset. The successful integration of offseason signees into the roster has been a pivotal element in the team’s performance, amplifying the organization’s impact in these initial matchups.

In addition to Towns and Hart, Jalen Brunson has emerged as a key figure in the Knicks’ lineup. Following a remarkable previous season, where the team defied expectations to reach the Eastern Conference Finals by defeating the Boston Celtics, the Knicks are eager to reclaim their position atop the league standings.

As fans anticipate seeing their marquee players face off against the Heat, the team is bracing for a formidable contest. The Miami Heat come equipped with a revamped roster, posing a significant early-season challenge.

Are Towns and Hart playing today in the Knicks vs. Heat game?

Both Karl-Anthony Towns and Josh Hart are playing against the Heat in Miami today. Even though they appeared on the injury report, the Knicks are reportedly counting on them. While KAT is on the starting lineup, Hart is expected to contribute off the bench.

Other names on the Knicks’ injury report

The Knicks’ injury report ahead of the Heat matchup includes two other key players. Mitchell Robinson is confirmed to be absent due to a left ankle injury. He will not be available, even as a substitute.

Deuce McBride is also listed as questionable due to personal reasons. With these absences, the Knicks face a challenging task against Miami, a game that could offer early insight into the hurdles each team might face as the season progresses.

The Knicks’ victory over the Cavaliers on opening night showcased a balanced offensive performance, led by 24 points from OG Anunoby and 23 from point guard Jalen Brunson. It was a statement win for New York, which is looking to establish early momentum in the Eastern Conference.

Prior to that game, there was uncertainty surrounding Towns’ availability as he dealt with a right quad strain. Despite the injury, he played through the discomfort, posting 19 points and 11 rebounds in the win — a strong debut for the newly acquired forward-center.

On the other side, the Celtics will likely be looking for revenge on Friday night when they meet the Knicks, who shocked them with a postseason elimination last year. While Jayson Tatum’s Achilles injury drew much of the attention during that series, New York had already taken control, leading 3-1 at the time — a result few predicted.

Will Karl-Anthony Towns play tonight for Knicks vs Celtics?

The Knicks return home to Madison Square Garden on Friday to face the Celtics, and Karl-Anthony Towns is set to start. On Thursday afternoon, the team released its latest injury report, confirming Towns’ availability despite his recent right quad strain.

Meanwhile, Josh Hart (lower back soreness) is listed as questionable, and Mitchell Robinson (left ankle injury management) will be out for a second straight game. OG Anunoby, dealing with a left ankle sprain, is listed as probable. With Towns in the starting lineup, the Knicks look to maintain their momentum against the Celtics.

What the Knicks expect this season — but health will be key

The Knicks are aiming to capitalize on an Eastern Conference that looks wide open, especially with injuries to stars like Jayson Tatum and Indiana Pacers guard Tyrese Haliburton, who helped eliminate New York in last year’s NBA Eastern Conference Finals. With Brunson leading the charge, the Knicks have built a deep, balanced roster and made key offseason additions, including dynamic scorer Jordan Clarkson.

Towns entered the season dealing with a right quad strain, which put his status for the opener in doubt. However, according to NBA insider Shams Charania, Towns will start in tonight’s game against the Cavaliers.

The inclusion of Towns is a major boost for the Knicks, who will be without Mitchell Robinson (left ankle injury management) and Josh Hart (lower back spasms) to start the season.

Another player whose status remains uncertain for tonight’s matchup is OG Anunoby, who’s listed as probable with a left ankle sprain. If Towns is unable to suit up, the Knicks will face a major void in the paint with both of their primary big men sidelined.

Cavaliers also dealing with key absences

For the Knicks, there’s some relief knowing they won’t be the only team shorthanded tonight. The Cleveland Cavaliers will also be missing several key players in their season opener.

Head coach Kenny Atkinson confirmed that starting point guard Darius Garland, starting wing Max Strus, and sixth man De’Andre Hunter will all be sidelined due to injury.

In a surprising development, Towns confessed to the media that he is unsure about his offensive role under Brown‘s leadership with the Knicks. “Honestly, I don’t know – but we’re figuring it out,” Towns admitted to reporters, as the team prepares for the season opener this week.

It’s not uncommon to face challenges when a new head coach joins the team, particularly for players deeply embedded in the organization. For Towns, this transition may present some hurdles in adapting to the offensive strategies, but it also offers an opportunity to grasp the coach’s directives on the court more effectively.

Regardless of the situation, what is certain is that Towns could emerge as a pivotal figure in Brown’s game plan. His strength and skillset have the potential to script a remarkable narrative for the Knicks this season, as they aim to advance further following their near miss at the NBA Finals, previously thwarted by the Indiana Pacers.

Towns offers insightful perspective on Knicks’ title hopes this season

As one of the teams that caught fans off guard with their strong regular-season performance, but didn’t quite exceed expectations, Towns has expressed that this season feels different. He acknowledges uncertainty regarding whether the team is poised to rank among the top five contenders for the NBA title this season.

“I’m not focused on that. It’s all speculation, like looking into a crystal ball and hoping it predicts success. We have to earn our way there,” Towns stated to the media ahead of their season opener against the Cleveland Cavaliers.

Towns impressed by teammate’s unexpected performance

With fans eagerly anticipating the dynamics among veteran players, newcomers, and head coach Brown, Towns shared his surprise regarding Rudy Gobert’s performance.

“I had certain expectations for Mitch…but his capabilities exceeded them,” Towns commented to the press. As the Knicks prepare for the new season, they aim to prove that last season’s playoff appearance was no fluke, showcasing their determination to solidify their standing in the league.

Karl-Anthony Towns still keeps close tabs on his former Timberwolves teammate Anthony Edwards, and the bond between the two remains strong despite Towns now wearing New York Knicks blue. The veteran big man recently opened up about watching Edwards evolve into one of the league’s most dynamic and generational talents.

In a recent appearance on The Old Man & the Three podcast, shared by ClutchPoints on X (formerly Twitter), Towns expressed his admiration for the Timberwolves’ star. “I get so proud when I see him doing well. I have my driver pass by the Adidas store a lot just to see the Anthony Edwards sign,” Towns said. He added that seeing Edwards thrive makes him feel like a proud big brother.

Towns and Edwards formed a strong duo during their time together in Minnesota, though fans never quite saw them reach their full potential as a tandem. Towns had already established himself as a more mature and decisive leader, while Edwards was still developing his game and identity as a rising star.

The role Towns played with Edwards

The five-time All-Star explained that he took on a mentorship role with Edwards during their time together in Minnesota, helping guide the young guard through the challenges of NBA life. Their relationship evolved into something deeper than just teammates, as Towns embraced a big brother role while Edwards transitioned from a promising rookie to an MVP-caliber player.

When asked what makes Edwards special, Towns pointed beyond physical talent. “His want, his mind. I think his charisma and stuff is what gets people to lean in to hear what he has to say. But it’s his want to be great that keeps people in his ecosystem,” Towns explained.

Edwards’ continued growth

Even though they no longer share a locker room, it’s evident that Towns’ mentorship has paid off. Edwards led the NBA with 320 three-pointers during the 2024-25 season and finished third in Clutch Player of the Year voting while helping Minnesota reach the Western Conference Finals, where they ultimately fell to the Oklahoma City Thunder in five games.

On Friday night, Karl-Anthony Towns also returned to Lexington to receive a major honor from his alma mater. Towns, who played 30 games with the Wildcats, in which he averaged 10.3 points, 6.7 rebounds, 1.1 assists and 2.3 blocks per game, was inducted into the Kentucky Athletics Hall of Fame.

Many accompanied the New York Knicks star in this special occasion, including his former coach, who had words for Towns after the ceremony. Calipari was there with his family and coaching staff to honor the veteran center.

John Calipari celebrates Karl-Anthony Towns on social media

After everything was set and done, Calipari shared a message on his personal X (formerly Twitter) account to celebrate Towns’ contribution to the program he led from 2009 through 2024.

“So happy for Karl and his family on his Hall of Fame induction! Ellen and Brad got to attend the induction and I just made it up with Kenny to celebrate with them after! Proud of you Karl and so glad we could be here to support and celebrate with you! Karl’s family, Kenny, Ellen, and Brad at dinner!” he said.

Towns and Calipari are facing new challenges this year after the 2024 offseason in their respective competitions brought major changes to their careers. While they went their separate ways, the love between them is still there.

Towns played 39 games in which he averaged 10.3 points, 6.7 rebounds, 1.1 assists, and 2.3 blocks per game and led the Wildcats to the 2015 NCAA tournament Final Four, where the Wisconsin Badgers stopped them.

Towns left the program as a very exciting prospect, which led the Minnesota Timberwolves to pick him and make him their franchise cornerstone. Now, with the Knicks, Towns received major news right after speaking with fellow alum Mark Pope, the current coach of the Wildcats.

Karl-Anthony Towns received HOF news after talking with Mark Pope

During an interview with Kentucky Sports Radio, Towns revealed he knew about the ceremony during the 2025 Eastern Conference finals. Just 15 minutes after he talked with Pope and recruiting coordinator Ray Oliver, and told them he would be thrilled to make the program’s Hall of Fame, Towns received a call from athletic director Mitch Barnhart, who told him the good news.

“Coach Pope was like, we got to fly down. Ray Oliver also was like, we got to fly down. We’re trying to see you,” Towns said.

He added that he wanted to leave a mark on the program, even if he only played one year in Lexington. The Wildcats couldn’t win the college basketball national championship with Towns on the roster, but they enter the 2025-26 season with renewed expectations after Pope proved doubters wrong.