Minnesota Timberwolves vs New York Knicks Picks and Predictions December 19th 2024

Karl-Anthony Towns Returns to Minnesota as Knicks Face Timberwolves

Karl-Anthony Towns is set to make his highly anticipated return to Minneapolis on Thursday night as the New York Knicks visit the Minnesota Timberwolves. After spending nine seasons as a cornerstone of the Timberwolves franchise, Towns now finds himself on the opposite side in what promises to be an emotional matchup.

Towns Reflects on His Minnesota Legacy

Towns, a three-time All-Star during his time in Minnesota, was a fan favorite and a pivotal part of the team both on and off the court. In his nine seasons, he averaged 22.9 points and 10.8 rebounds per game while becoming an active presence in the community.

However, this will be Towns’ first game back at Target Center since being traded to the Knicks in exchange for Julius Randle, Donte DiVincenzo, and a 2025 first-round pick.

Towns acknowledged the uncertainty of his reception from the fans:

“Every game is important. It will be cool to be in the house. … You never know how the fans will respond,” Towns said. “For me, my household, I know what I gave that organization. And I am happy and proud for what I was able to do.”

Since joining New York, Towns has been a major contributor, averaging 24.8 points and a career-best 13.9 rebounds per game, helping the Knicks to an 11-4 run in their last 15 games.

Knicks Lean on Towns and Brunson

The Knicks (16-10) enter the matchup after a solid 100-91 road win over the Orlando Magic. Jalen Brunson led the way with 31 points, and Towns added another strong performance as New York continues to build momentum.

Brunson has been the Knicks’ offensive engine, averaging 25.0 points per game on 48.9 percent shooting. Alongside Towns, New York features a balanced scoring attack with contributions from Mikal Bridges and OG Anunoby (both averaging 17.0 points), as well as Josh Hart (14.1) and Miles McBride (10.4).

Timberwolves Finding Their Groove

The Timberwolves (15-9) are also in strong form, winning six of their last seven games, including a 106-92 road victory over the San Antonio Spurs.

Anthony Edwards continues to lead Minnesota with 26.2 points per game, while Julius Randle, acquired in the Towns trade, is averaging 20.1 points per contest. Veteran big man Rudy Gobert has been a force on the boards, averaging 11.0 rebounds alongside 10.6 points per game.

Gobert reflected fondly on his time playing alongside Towns:
“From Day 1, he always told me that whatever I need, he was always there for me. He really made it fun for me to get here into the organization. We started really connecting outside the floor, also. I felt like he really, truly wanted to see me succeed.”

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Timberwolves veteran Mike Conley added his own praise for Towns:
“The energy he brought every day, just playful sometimes, sometimes it’s super smart, witty, whatever it may be. … When they leave, it’s like, dang, you miss those moments.”

Key Matchups to Watch

Karl-Anthony Towns vs. Rudy Gobert

Towns and Gobert were once partners in Minnesota’s frontcourt, but now they’ll go head-to-head. Towns’ versatility and perimeter shooting will challenge Gobert’s rim protection and defensive prowess.

Jalen Brunson vs. Anthony Edwards

Both teams rely heavily on their guards to drive the offense. Brunson’s efficiency and playmaking will clash with Edwards’ dynamic scoring ability in a matchup that could determine the game’s outcome.

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Julius Randle’s Revenge Game?

Randle has been a steady presence for Minnesota since the trade and will look to make an impact against his former team. His ability to stretch the floor and score in the post will be critical for the Timberwolves.

What’s at Stake

For Towns, this game is more than just another contest; it’s an opportunity to showcase his growth and contributions to a team that has quickly embraced him.

For the Timberwolves, it’s a chance to reaffirm their identity post-Towns and prove that they’ve built a competitive roster around Edwards and Randle.

The Bottom Line

Both teams come into the game in strong form, with the Knicks thriving behind Towns and Brunson and the Timberwolves finding their rhythm with Edwards and Randle. Towns’ return to Minneapolis adds an emotional element to a matchup that already features plenty of star power.

Will Towns shine in his Minnesota homecoming, or will the Timberwolves spoil his return and continue their strong play at Target Center? Either way, Thursday night promises to deliver a compelling and hard-fought game.