Knicks struggling, uncertain future: Grizzlies eye Karl-Anthony Towns

After an encouraging start – highlighted by winning the NBA Cup – the New York Knicks’ season has taken a sharp downturn. Four straight losses and a 2-9 record over the last 11 games have brought long-standing doubts back to the surface, especially with the trade deadline fast approaching.

In this context, Karl-Anthony Towns has once again become a central topic. While his on-court production remains solid – 21.0 points, 11.6 rebounds, 3.0 assists per game – questions about his defensive limitations and an imperfect fit with the current roster have reportedly pushed New York to explore alternative scenarios.

A telling signal also came from Mike Brown, in his first season on the Knicks’ bench, who publicly called out Towns – something that rarely happens by chance in the NBA.

When a coach brings certain issues into the open, it usually means the front office is already reflecting on deeper moves.

NBA insider

Memphis watching closely: Grizzlies ready to change direction

According to Steve Popper of Newsday, citing league sources, the Memphis Grizzlies are among the teams most attentive to Towns’ situation – and the interest makes sense.

The Ja Morant era, at least as initially envisioned, appears to be approaching a crossroads (despite Morant’s own reassurances). Between off-court issues, internal tension, and a culture the franchise wants to redefine, Memphis is considering a more substantial reset. In that scenario, Karl-Anthony Towns fits the profile perfectly: a low-drama leader, respected in the locker room, capable of producing without dominating headlines.

At 30 years old, Towns can still be the centerpiece of a competitive project – especially for a franchise in search of a new technical and emotional identity.

The ideal proposal: what the Grizzlies could offer the Knicks

Memphis has the assets to engage New York seriously. A credible package could include Jaren Jackson Jr., GG Jackson, and Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, with Landry Shamet potentially added to balance salaries on the Knicks’ side.

Ja Morant remains a theoretical trade chip, but it’s difficult to imagine New York pursuing that route given Jalen Brunson’s presence and the franchise’s desire to avoid additional uncertainty.

Why Jaren Jackson Jr. appeals to New York

For the Knicks, Jaren Jackson Jr. would represent an immediate defensive upgrade – exactly the type of profile a coach like Mike Brown values: rim protection, mobility, and versatility. Over the past four seasons, JJJ has consistently averaged over 18 points, while also improving his three-point shooting, a key factor in preserving the spacing Towns provides.

At just 26, Jackson hasn’t reached his prime yet. Slotted next to Mitchell Robinson and elite wing defenders like OG Anunoby or Mikal Bridges, he could anchor one of the league’s most physical and difficult frontcourts to attack.

GG Jackson and Caldwell-Pope: depth and reliability

GG Jackson and Kentavious Caldwell-Pope would bolster New York’s second unit with energy and two-way reliability. Both can pressure the ball, change tempo, and contribute without high usage. Even with guards like Miles McBride or Jordan Clarkson already in the mix, added depth is a luxury – especially with KCP’s playoff experience and leadership.

Karl-Anthony Towns in Memphis: a new offensive centerpiece

In Memphis, Towns would instantly become the offensive focal point. Currently, Jaren Jackson Jr. leads the Grizzlies in scoring at 18.8 points per game, a figure that falls short of true contender aspirations.

With Towns, Memphis would gain a consistent offensive anchor, capable of stretching the floor and creating advantages for players like Morant, Cedric Coward, and Jaylen Wells. Big men such as Zach Edey and Jock Landale are useful, but they don’t warp defenses – Towns would fundamentally change how opponents guard the paint.

With Tuomas Iisalo open to experimentation, the Grizzlies could design a system tailored to KAT: shooters around him, high pace, and aggressive spacing. A setup that might also help Morant rediscover both on-court centrality and credibility.

Open scenarios and decisive days ahead

This trade wouldn’t instantly make Memphis a title contender, but it would signal a clear new direction. For New York, it could be the opportunity to rebalance the roster and reinforce a stronger defensive identity.

The coming days promise to be decisive. Knicks and Grizzlies are watching, evaluating, and waiting for the right moment to move.