Instant impact: Knicks trade for Towns, become third-favorites for 2024-25 title

Photo: Peter Baba

The New York Knicks have made headlines by acquiring Karl-Anthony Towns from the Minnesota Timberwolves.

In this blockbuster trade, the Knicks sent Julius Randle and Donte DiVincenzo to Minnesota.

Following this significant move, the Knicks are now listed as the third-top favorite to win the championship in the 2024-25 season.

ESPN Bet has set the Knicks’ odds at +700, placing them behind only the defending champions Boston Celtics and the Oklahoma City Thunder.

The Celtics lead with odds of +340, while the Thunder hold the second position at +650.

This trade represents a shift in the Knicks’ strategy as they aim to build a championship-caliber team.

Towns, a two-time All-Star, brings versatility and scoring ability to New York’s lineup. His addition will significantly enhance the Knicks’ offensive capabilities and provide support in the frontcourt.

The Knicks finished the 2023-24 season with a solid record of 50-32, marking their first 50-win season since 2013.

Last season, the Knicks faced various challenges, including Randle’s shoulder injury, which sidelined him for the playoffs.

Despite these setbacks, the Knicks made it to the second round of the playoffs, defeating the Philadelphia 76ers in the first round.

However, their playoff run ended in a hard-fought series against the Indiana Pacers.

With Towns now on the roster, the Knicks are looking to improve on their playoff performance.