The Karl-Anthony Towns trade talk swirling around the Knicks has entered that familiar NBA gray area-somewhere between calculated leaks and cautious curiosity.
Here’s what we know: According to multiple reports, the Knicks have had internal conversations about Towns and have even discussed him with other teams. But that doesn’t necessarily mean they’re actively trying to move him. In fact, sources say New York isn’t “shopping” Towns at the moment, and there’s no indication of serious trade talks underway involving the five-time All-Star.
Still, with the trade deadline looming on February 5, things could shift. As we’ve seen time and again in this league, all it takes is one phone call, one injury, or one unexpected offer to flip the script. For now, though, the expectation is that Towns will stay put-at least through the deadline.
That said, rival teams aren’t buying the Knicks’ poker face entirely. There’s a growing belief around the league that New York’s public stance may be more about leverage than loyalty.
In other words, the Knicks may not be the ones initiating calls, but they’re certainly picking up the phone. Quietly, they seem to be gauging what Towns’ market value might look like-just in case the right opportunity comes along.
And let’s be honest: it’s not hard to see why there’d be interest. Towns is still producing at a high level, averaging 20.5 points, 11.4 rebounds, and 2.9 assists per game while shooting efficiently across the board.
He’s under contract through the 2027-28 season, with a hefty $61 million player option in that final year. That kind of long-term control-paired with his offensive skill set-makes him a uniquely valuable piece in a league where stretch bigs who can rebound and pass don’t grow on trees.
So what does this all mean? Right now, this isn’t a full-blown trade rumor-it’s more of a temperature check.
The Knicks aren’t pushing Towns out the door, but they’re not locking it shut either. They’re doing what smart front offices do: staying flexible, keeping tabs on the market, and preparing for whatever might come next.
Whether this turns into something real remains to be seen. But in a league where smoke often leads to fire, it’s worth watching closely.