The New York Knicks are determined to strengthen their lineup and aim for an NBA championship, marking significant efforts not seen in the franchise for over 20 years.

As part of this major trade, the Knicks will send Julius Randle, Donte DiVincenzo, and a first-round draft pick to the Timberwolves as the preseason approaches.

Additionally, the Knicks will trade DaQuan Jeffries to Charlotte.

New York is eager to compete against the reigning NBA champion Boston Celtics for supremacy in the Eastern Conference. The last time the Knicks reached the Finals was in 2000, and their championship victory dates back to 1973.

Last season, the Knicks recorded a 50-32 record, led by All-Star Jalen Brunson. However, injuries affected their playoff performance, resulting in a loss to Indiana in the conference semifinals.

Evaluating the Trade for the Knicks

The Knicks acquire a powerful player in Towns, a four-time All-Star who averaged 21.8 points, 8.3 rebounds, and 3.0 assists last season. He also achieved career-high shooting percentages of 50.4% from the field, 41.6% from three-point range, and 87.3% from the free-throw line.

This move is significant for Towns, who is returning to his roots. He was born in Edison, New Jersey, and played high school basketball at St. Joseph in Metuchen, NJ. Towns, who is 28, was selected as the first overall pick by the Minnesota Timberwolves in the 2015 draft.

His addition will enhance the Knicks’ offensive capabilities alongside Brunson, OG Anunoby, Josh Hart, and Mikal Bridges, the latter being a recent addition from Brooklyn.

Grade: B+

Evaluating the Trade for the Timberwolves

The Timberwolves are parting ways with a valuable player who was a beloved member of the team and community. Last season, the Timberwolves achieved a franchise record of 56 wins and made it to the Western Conference finals but were defeated by Dallas.

From a broader perspective, the Timberwolves are shedding Towns’ substantial contract, which has four years and $220.4 million left. In return, they receive Randle, who has the option to either become a free agent after next season or activate his player option of $30.9 million for 2025-26. This trade will provide financial relief for the Timberwolves, who aim to reduce their luxury tax expenses.

Randle had an impressive season, averaging 24.0 points, 9.2 rebounds, and 5.0 assists, but his participation was limited to just 46 regular season games due to a dislocated right shoulder, which kept him out of the playoffs.

DiVincenzo has emerged as a reliable player, contributing with an average of 15.5 points and shooting 40.1% from three-point range during the 2023-24 season.

Grade: C