Karl-Anthony Towns and Gilbert Arenas (Images Credit: Getty Images)
After spending nine years with the Minnesota Timberwolves, Karl-Anthony Towns moved to the New York Knicks this offseason. After becoming familiar with the love and support of Minnesota fans, Towns now encounters a new challenge in New York, where expectations for him are high.

Former NBA star Gilbert Arenas recently shared his blunt opinion on the matter during an episode of his show, Gil’s Arena. Arenas explained his concerns, particularly about Towns’ style of play and its potential impact on the Knicks’ toughness.

“I think where it hurts is you don’t have an enforcer anymore that protects Brunson, right? You know, when you start getting to some of those teams that like to play bully basketball, just bring him in here; we’re gonna hit him a little bit. You don’t have anybody that’s gonna have his back, right? That ain’t Kat’s job,” Arenas said.

“He’s not gonna be sitting there trying to level people that hit Brunson a few times. So I think that’s gonna hurt them a little bit moving forward, and KAT won’t get to the free throw line. So because Kat doesn’t get fouls, he doesn’t create foul opportunities,” he added.

Karl-Anthony Towns Shares Emotional Toll On Playing Against Minnesota

Karl-Anthony Towns faced his former team for the first time in the New York Knicks’ third preseason victory. The Knicks secured a 115-110 win, and for Towns, it was an emotional experience as he went up against the team where he spent the first nine years of his NBA career.

“It was a lot of emotion, some amazing moments and times, and nine years of my life in Minnesota, a place that I’ve called home. Guys who are not just teammates to me, but brothers, real-life brothers,” Towns said.

Towns played 29 minutes, contributing 16 points and 16 rebounds, helping the Knicks secure their third consecutive preseason win. While the game marked a significant moment for Towns, it also showed his ability to adapt and perform with his new team.