On Thursday night, Karl-Anthony Towns returned to Minneapolis to face his former Timberwolves team for the first time since being traded to the New York Knicks just before the 2024-25 preseason. Towns was traded in exchange for Julius Randle, Donte DiVincenzo, and a future first-round pick from Detroit.
During his nine years with the Timberwolves, Towns made four All-Star appearances and achieved All-NBA honors twice, helping lead the team to four playoff appearances. His role was pivotal during the Timberwolves’ remarkable run to the Western Conference Finals last year, marking the franchise’s first appearance there in two decades. Hence, his return was laden with emotion.
Before the game, Towns expressed his continued support for the Timberwolves, saying he is "an avid Timberwolves fan" and referred to his former teammates as "still my brothers." He shared this sentiment with the media, showing genuine affection for his past. Adding to the emotional return, Towns posted on social media to express his gratitude for Minnesota.
Before the game, the Timberwolves recognized Towns with a heartfelt tribute video, demonstrating the respect and camaraderie he built during his time with the franchise. Players were seen exchanging pleasantries with Towns during warm-ups, showcasing the bond he shared with his former teammates.
When the game tipped off, it quickly became apparent why the Knicks were excited to have Towns. After the Timberwolves held the lead briefly, Towns changed the momentum by scoring 19 points during the second quarter. He ended the first half with 22 points and 10 rebounds, propelling the Knicks to dominate the game, eventually winning 133-107. Towns finished the night with 32 points, 20 rebounds, and 6 assists, leading his team both offensively and defensively.
The Timberwolves’ struggles were evident, particularly on offense, where they sorely missed Towns’ contributions. Julius Randle's performance has been inconsistent, failing to deliver the same impact as Towns. While Randle is averaging solid numbers, his three-point shooting inconsistency has hindered the team’s offensive efficiency, affecting standout performances from Anthony Edwards and other players.
To complicate matters, Donte DiVincenzo, expected to help fill the scoring void left by Towns, has faced significant challenges this season. After averaging 15.5 points with the Knicks, he is now producing just 8.9 points per game with the Timberwolves, contributing to the difficulty the team is experiencing on the scoreboard. His decline has only amplified the urgency for the Timberwolves to adapt and find solutions.
Looking ahead, the Timberwolves are set to face the Detroit Pistons on January 4, 2025, after meeting the Atlanta Hawks on December 23, 2024. With both games proving to be significant, the Timberwolves need to refocus and regain their defensive identity which has led them to early victories this season.
Against the Pistons, who are led by Cade Cunningham, averaging 24.0 points per game, the Timberwolves must contain key players and improve their shooting to secure a win. Following the game with the Pistons, they will take on the Hawks, who aim to snap their three-game losing streak.
The Timberwolves, currently fighting to maintain their position within playoff contention, will have to leverage their defensive skills, with Rudy Gobert and Anthony Edwards needing strong performances to secure victories against the upcoming opponents. This stretches through what promises to be tough contests amid the competitive Western Conference standings.
Each game is pivotal. Winning against the Pistons and Hawks not only adds to their record but also builds momentum as they approach the holiday season and beyond. Now is the time for the Timberwolves to rediscover their offensive flow and capitalize on their defensive strengths. They need to build on their past identities as trusted playoff contenders, making every moment count as the season progresses.
With the season well underway and as the Timberwolves eye upcoming matchups, fans are hopeful for a turnaround—a theme appropriate for the holidays as they seek to wrap up the year on a high note.
