Karl-Anthony Towns elevates Knicks to contender status with impressive debut, ranks No. 3 among NBA centers for 2026 season
The New York Knicks made significant strides last offseason, positioning themselves as serious contenders for the championship with two bold moves. Central to this transformation is Karl-Anthony Towns, who has quickly become one of the franchise’s most impactful players. Following a stellar first season in New York, he finds himself rising in the ranks of NBA centers, landing at No. 3 in recent assessments.
The Shocking Trade
Around this time last year, the basketball world was left in disbelief when the Knicks traded former All-Star Julius Randle to bring in Towns from the Minnesota Timberwolves. Towns had long been linked to New York in trade discussions, and his arrival was met with excitement and high expectations. Teaming up with Jalen Brunson, Towns formed a dynamic duo that quickly became one of the most formidable pairings in the Eastern Conference.
A Stellar Season in New York
In his debut season with the Knicks, Towns not only maintained his elite level of performance but also shone brighter than ever. He secured both All-Star and All-NBA honors, averaging an impressive 24.4 points, 12.8 rebounds, and 3.1 assists per game. His contributions were instrumental in leading the Knicks to the conference finals for the first time in 25 years, marking a significant milestone for a franchise eager to reclaim its status as a contender.
Top of the Center Rankings
As the new season approaches, HoopsHype has released its rankings of the top centers in the NBA, with Towns prominently featured. Coming in at No. 3, he stands alongside elite company, trailing only the prodigious Victor Wembanyama and three-time MVP Nikola Jokic. Frank Urbina noted, “Star big man Karl-Anthony Towns had a magnificent debut season with his hometown New York Knicks, going down as one of just two players in 2024-25 to put up a 24/12/3 stat line, along with the No. 1 player on this list. Towns has a special skill set for a center, thanks to his ability to shoot, drive, finish with power near the rim, and even create looks for teammates.”
Looking Ahead
With the addition of several key depth pieces in the offseason, the Knicks are well-positioned for another deep playoff run in 2026. However, the team’s success will largely hinge on the continued excellence of Towns and Brunson. The chemistry and performance of this duo will be critical as New York seeks to build on its recent successes and compete for the ultimate prize in the NBA. The stage is set for an exhilarating season ahead, and all eyes will be on the Big Apple as the Knicks aim to solidify their status among the league’s elite.
