Bleacher Report Floats Three-Team Deal Moving Karl-Anthony Towns to Orlando
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A new hypothetical trade outlined by Bleacher Report proposes a three-team agreement that would shift Karl-Anthony Towns from the New York Knicks to the Orlando Magic while involving the Brooklyn Nets as a third participant.
Proposed terms
The scenario, created strictly for discussion, breaks down as follows:
- Knicks receive: Wendell Carter Jr., Haywood Highsmith, Jalen Suggs
- Magic receive: Karl-Anthony Towns, Day’Ron Sharpe
- Nets receive: Jonathan Isaac, Jett Howard, a 2026 first-round pick from the Wizards (top-eight protected, converts to 2026 and 2027 second-rounders if not conveyed), a 2028 second-round pick (least favorable of the Pacers and Suns), a 2030 second-round pick (more favorable of the Magic and Pelicans) and a 2031 first-round pick swap with Orlando
There is no indication that any of the involved franchises have engaged in formal discussions, and league sources have not suggested that a deal is imminent.
Why the move is being floated
The Athletic’s James L. Edwards III recently said he would “not be stunned” if New York eventually decided to part with Towns, noting that rival front offices are monitoring the situation as the Knicks struggle to maintain consistency. Newsday’s Steve Popper previously identified Memphis, Orlando and Charlotte as clubs that have at least inquired about the All-Star center.
Towns, 28, is earning more than $53 million this season and does not possess a no-trade clause. He is averaging better than 20 points and 11 rebounds per game, though his defensive impact and overall roster fit remain topics of debate.
Potential impact for each side
For Orlando, pairing Towns with forward Paolo Banchero, wing Franz Wagner and guard Desmond Bane—at least on paper—would add shooting and offensive punch to a young core seeking additional scoring options.
For New York, the proposal would represent a roster reshuffle rather than a full rebuild, moving the high-priced Towns contract in exchange for younger pieces and financial flexibility.
As of now, the idea lives strictly in the realm of trade-machine speculation, but league observers note that unexpected moves are never out of the question when it comes to the Knicks.
Source: Hoops Wire
