Knicks urged to trade $220 million five-time All-Star if postseason ends in failure

Apr 25, 2026; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; New York Knicks players react on the bench against the Atlanta Hawks during the second half during game four of the first round of the 2026 NBA Playoffs at State Farm Arena. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-Imagn Images

The New York Knicks appear poised to finally get over the hump this postseason and prove they can win a championship with their star-studded group. 

New York is in full control against the Philadelphia 76ers in the second round (2-0 lead) and possesses the firepower necessary to finish the year as the last team standing. If the Knicks fall short of their ultimate goal, though, it could spark a monster trade involving their five-time All-Star center. 

“There is reportedly some belief within NBA circles that the New York Knicks should make a decision on All-Star center Karl-Anthony Towns' future with the franchise this coming offseason,” Bleacher Report’s Mike Chiari wrote Tuesday.

“Speaking to ESPN's Tim Bontemps and Brian Windhorst, an anonymous Eastern Conference executive said, ‘They're probably in a spot with KAT that they should either extend him or look to trade him. If this playoff run convinces everyone this is a good fit, maybe they can get him to take a little discount off his max, like (Jalen) Brunson did and help them keep the core together."

In other words, Towns is auditioning for a long-term role/contract with the Knicks during the 2026 playoffs. So far, the Kentucky product has impressed, continuing to showcase his versatility as a stretch five and controlling the glass at a high level with New York. 

Towns contributed 18.7 points, 11.3 rebounds, 6.0 assists, 1.7 blocks, and 1.7 steals against the Atlanta Hawks to begin the postseason, shooting 56.9% from the field and 44.4% from long range. 

In two games against the 76ers in the Eastern Conference Semifinals, Towns is averaging 18.5 points, 8.0 rebounds, 6.5 assists, 1.0 blocks, and 0.5 steals nightly. Ultimately, the Knicks will be satisfied with Towns’ play as long as it equates to wins during the most pivotal portion of the season. 

If things go downhill from here, though, the former Minnesota Timberwolves could find himself in rampant trade rumors once again.

More NBA news:

• Lakers urged to trade $165 million ex-Mavericks superstar after recent injury concerns

• Warriors-Nuggets trade pitch sends $207 million All-Star, NBA champion to Golden State

• Lakers-Wizards trade pitch sends $186 million 10-time All-Star, NBA champion back to Los Angeles