The future of Karl-Anthony Towns with the Minnesota Timberwolves has come into question following Anthony Edwards’ super-max extension signing. NBA insiders suggest that Towns’ name could be in trade discussions closer to next season’s trade deadline. While Towns has had individual success, being a two-time All-NBA third-team member and three-time NBA All-Star, the team’s overall performance has been lackluster, with only three playoff appearances and no playoff series wins during his tenure.
Karl-Anthony Towns’ name came up in trade talks last month, per @IanBegley
“There were talks between the Timberwolves and other teams before the draft and Towns' name came up. I don't know how aggressive the Timberwolves were with Towns, if at all.”
(h/t @realgm) pic.twitter.com/qX4IWt4qph
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) July 14, 2023
What do the Minnesota Timberwolves plan for Karl-Anthony Towns?
The Timberwolves’ decision to sign Edwards to a long-term contract extension indicates a shift in the franchise’s direction, potentially moving away from Towns as the centerpiece. There are no concrete rumors of the Timberwolves actively shopping Towns or the player requesting a trade. Unless an irresistible offer comes along, the team is expected to approach the upcoming season with optimism and assess their position in the Western Conference before considering major changes.
Some executives around the league believe the Timberwolves will trade Karl-Anthony Towns ‘in the next few weeks,’ per @EricPincus pic.twitter.com/DuP9953T3z
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) June 9, 2023
However, if the season doesn’t go well for the Timberwolves, they may start entertaining trade offers for Towns. There will likely be numerous interested teams, such as the injury-plagued Los Angeles Clippers, with players like Paul George and Kawhi Leonard with upcoming player options. The Dallas Mavericks, led by Luka Doncic, could also be motivated to make moves to keep their young superstar content.
The timeline for any potential Towns trade discussions is expected to take shape around December, depending on the Minnesota Timberwolves‘ performance in the Western Conference. Major trades often develop closer to the trade deadline, so the storyline may extend into that period. Regardless, this upcoming season holds significant importance for both Towns and the Minnesota Timberwolves, with potential drama looming, whether it be positive or negative.
Overall, the speculation surrounding Towns’ long-term future in Minnesota suggests that if the team underperforms, they may explore trade options, attracting interest from several groups seeking a dominant big man like Towns.
Source: Fansided
