'Knicks Wouldn't Reach ECF Without KAT': Ex-NBA Player Defends Karl-Anthony Towns Amid Criticism

The New York Knicks saw a massive shift in their roster when they made a trade with the Minnesota Timberwolves to acquire Karl-Anthony Towns. Although Towns' impact was largely positive, the big man has faced a lot of criticism, bearing the blame for New York's exit from the playoffs. In light of this, former NBA player Lou Williams had to step in to defend the forward. While speaking on "Run It Back", he said:

"Get off KAT's back. We also gotta stop allowing X and Instagram to be our GMs... There ain't a lot of KATs lying around that you can just get rid of and feel like you're going to have a better opportunity to win."

"If you've got an opportunity to get a Giannis or somebody, sure. You take a look at everything. But that was his first season as a New York Knick, and they got to the ECF. There's a lot of adjustments to be made."

Williams acknowledged Towns' defensive shortcomings, a point of concern for the Knicks, but he added that this was one among many mistakes that accumulated, eventually resulting in a loss.

He then added to his statement by saying, "If it wasn't for KAT, y'all would've been sent home 72 hours earlier anyways. So give these guys credit and give them an opportunity to get better and grow."

Towns' performance in the ECF could be considered consistent. His ability to stretch the floor, along with his sustained offensive output in the paint during Game 5 of the ECF, was crucial in keeping their playoff hopes alive. 

The Knicks' big man recorded 24 points and 13 rebounds for the game while shooting 50% from the field, attempting only four shots from beyond the arc.

The 29-year-old practically reinvented himself with the Knicks. While he was already considered one of the best sharpshooting big men in the league, Towns showcased an aggression that was highly beneficial for the team during the ECF series.

Towns notched an average of 24.4 points, 12.8 rebounds, and 3.1 assists per game in the regular season. Although these numbers did take a bit of a hit in the playoffs, the change wasn't drastic enough to garner the kind of scrutiny that he has.

Regardless, the Knicks find themselves in a strange position heading into the offseason. After a commendable run through the playoffs, New York will still be looking to shake things up to improve.

The Knicks are rumored to be making some personnel changes. While head coach Tom Thibodeau seems to have the support of the franchise, the team may see some major adjustments. With links to superstars in trade rumors forming the narrative of the offseason, the organization will attempt to build a roster that can secure a championship for the city.