Knicks Grew Frustrated With Karl-Anthony Towns’ Defense

New York Knicks coaches and players were reportedly frustrated with Karl Anthony-Towns ‘ defense throughout the season.

Towns, who is often viewed as an extensive offensive threat, was making mistakes on defense consistently.

“Too often, Towns executed incorrect coverages without communicating why he did it,” according to James Edwards III and Fred Katz of The Athletic. “After it became a theme, players worried Towns didn’t grasp the importance of the matter.”

In the regular season, the Knicks averaged 2.8 points per 100 possessions better on defense with Towns off the court. The number was closer to even during the playoffs, although the Indiana Pacers repeatedly took advantage of Towns through mismatches.

Despite just one season with the Knicks, some have questioned a potential KAT trade because he is a defensive liability, although the Knicks made their first Eastern Conference Finals since 2000.

Last season with the Minnesota Timberwolves, Towns helped lead the team to the number one-ranked defense in the NBA.

Jalen Brunson and Towns, as a star duo, have seemingly a high ceiling if the Knicks can play consistent defense.