2 min read • February 24, 2025
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In the February 23 matchup against the Boston Celtics, the New York Knicks had a potentially significant setback as star center Karl-Anthony Towns sustained a left knee injury during their 118-105 loss. The incident occurred early in the fourth quarter when Towns attempted a dunk over Kristaps Porziņģis, landing awkwardly and immediately showing signs of discomfort. He hobbled up the court, clutching his knee, before collapsing on the bench and subsequently heading to the locker room for evaluation.
Despite the evident pain, Towns returned to the game after a brief absence, re-entering with 4:12 remaining. His return, however, sparked criticism towards head coach Tom Thibodeau for allowing an injured player back on the court, especially with the team trailing by a significant margin. Observers noted that Towns appeared to struggle upon his return, raising questions about the decision to play him in such circumstances.
Prior to the injury, Towns had been a pivotal force for the Knicks, recording 24 points and 18 rebounds over 41 minutes. His performance was instrumental in narrowing a 27-point deficit to just four points early in the fourth quarter. However, the Celtics, led by Jayson Tatum's near triple-double of 25 points, 10 rebounds, and nine assists, ultimately secured their victory.
Post-game reports indicate that Towns bypassed the medical staff's initial recommendation for a thorough knee examination, opting instead to return to play. This decision has raised concerns about his availability for upcoming games, with his status for the next matchup against the Philadelphia 76ers on February 26 remaining uncertain. The Knicks' medical team is expected to monitor his condition closely in the coming days.
This injury adds to the Knicks' recent struggles against top-tier teams. The loss to the Celtics marked their third defeat against Boston this season. As the team prepares for a demanding schedule ahead, Towns' health and recovery will be crucial in determining their trajectory in the playoff race.
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Here’s the play where Karl-Anthony Towns hurt his knee:
