New York Knicks center Karl-Anthony Towns. Brad Penner-Imagn Images

Karl-Anthony Towns earns Knicks legend's stamp of approval

By Adam Taylor | Last updated Dec 13, 2024 1:33 PM ET

Karl-Anthony Towns has quickly adapted to life with the New York Knicks. He's leading the team's per-game metrics in points, rebounds, shot attempts and made shots per game.

With Towns in the rotation, the Knicks have shot up to third in offensive rating, averaging 120.2 points per 100 possessions.

On a recent episode of Carmelo Anthony's "7PM in Brooklyn" podcast, the former All-Star praised Towns's quick adaptation to his new surroundings.

“KAT found a new life, man,” Anthony said. “When you come to New York, you have to find your way… KAT is finding his way, almost like coming back home in a sense. There’s no more pressure. It’s relaxed — your family, your routine... We want to see the nitty and gritty part of KAT,” Anthony emphasized. “What you’re seeing now, him hitting the three and walking off in New York — that’s a different energy.”

The Knicks needed an offensive big man like Towns. His skill set has tied the roster together, giving them new dimensions on offense while also being a reliable defender and glass cleaner. According to Cleaning The Glass, the Knicks have played 1,565 possessions with Towns on the court. In those possessions, they're outscoring teams by +9.4 points and have an offense in the 96th percentile.

Towns came into the roster with a pre-built relationship with Thibodeau. That relationship has likely played a role in Towns' quick acclimation to the Knicks.

Nevertheless, Towns' is deserving of Anthony's praise. It isn't easy to join a new team and be seen as one of their leading stars. Especially when that team is hungry for success and has one of the most rabid fanbases in the league. Life in New York has suffocated stars in the past. Towns appear to be basking in the pressure cooker and rising to the occasion whenever needed.

The Knicks are still developing team chemistry after making multiple moves over the past 12 months. Towns' hot start has been a welcomed sign of what's to come.

Once New York's roster has gelled, they will be legitimate threats in the Eastern Conference. Until then, Towns and Jalen Brunson will ensure the Knicks remain highly competitive. The future is bright in Madison Square Garden, even brighter than when Anthony was suiting up for the franchise.

Adam Taylor

Adam Taylor is a sports journalist based out of the UK. Adam has been covering the NBA for nearly a decade with a core focus on the Boston Celtics. He currently holds bylines with Yardbarker, SB Nation and USA Today

More must-reads: