The 2024-25 New York Knicks went all the way to the Eastern Conference Finals, and when the fans officially realized they were four wins from the NBA Finals, they showed their excitement in large numbers within the beautiful state of New York.
Of course, the reason they found themselves in the third round was because of a Jalen Brunson game-winner in game six against the Detroit Pistons of round one. This long-range shot from the former Villanova Wildcat was generated from a cold, behind-the-back dribble that had Ausar Thompson, an elite perimeter defender, out of direction.
Moreover, the Knicks defeated the second-seeded Boston Celtics, which was another challenge, and it was a team effort. Mikal Bridges shined miraculously, Brunson flourished, and Karl-Anthony Towns proved why New York won the blockbuster trade involving the Minnesota Timberwolves.
However, in the Eastern Conference Finals, the Knicks lost in six games. There were various reasons why, but of the biggest concerns, Towns’ name peaked.
He was the elite offensive engine he has been, posting 24.8 points and 12.2 rebounds in 35.2 minutes, shooting 50.0% from the floor and 36.7% from a distance. These numbers were superstar-esque, but his flaws came on defense.
The New York Knicks 2024-25 downfall could lead to the LA Clippers' front office asking about Karl-Anthony Towns' price tag
With Karl-Anthony Towns struggling defensively, the LA Clippers could be the perfect offseason destination for him. He would be added to a top-three defense in the league, where Jeff Van Gundy would advise him on what little details to improve on.
Last season, Towns averaged 24.4 points, 12.8 rebounds, and 3.1 assists, with a true shooting percentage of 63.0. Additionally, Towns has three years remaining on his term, totaling $171 million. This comes from the extension he signed with the Minnesota Timberwolves on July 7, 2022.
In a package for Towns, the Clippers would have to give the Knicks a minimum of Norman Powell, Bogdan Bogdanović, and Derrick Jones Jr. From this point, executive Lawrence Frank can negotiate on how much draft capital to include.
Inserting Towns enhances the Clippers’ starting frontcourt significantly, as he would be the power forward next to Ivica Zubac, similar to his days with the Timberwolves alongside Rudy Gobert.
That said, Towns could make a one-season exit in New York and join the Clippers, where the Knicks receive massive depth in the guard and forward slots.