New York Knicks officials have reportedly tested interest in Karl-Anthony Towns, according to Marc Stein of The Stein Line. While the front office downplays an in-season trade, some rival executives believe the 30-year-old center could be in play.
Towns is in the second year of a four-year, $220 million contract, with a player option in the final season. He is averaging 20.5 points, 11.4 rebounds, and 2.9 assists in 42 games this season, shooting 46.9% from the field and 36.4% from three.
The Knicks sit fourth in the Eastern Conference at 27-18, 6.5 games behind Detroit. Their record has fluctuated recently, including a four-game losing streak in early January and back-to-back wins against Brooklyn and Philadelphia last week.
New York has a roster anchored by Jalen Brunson, OG Anunoby, and Mikal Bridges, providing a mix of scoring and perimeter defense. Towns’ size and scoring remain valuable, but his salary and the team’s current competitive position create trade complexities.
Towns’ versatility as a stretch big makes him attractive for teams needing interior scoring and rebounding. However, a trade would require balancing long-term picks and contracts, which limits the number of feasible offers before the February 5 deadline.
While no deal appears imminent, Stein notes that the Knicks have been gauging the market quietly. Any trade involving Towns could reshape New York’s roster strategy and influence playoff positioning in a crowded Eastern Conference.
