Karl-Anthony Towns expects another big season from Timberwolves

The Minnesota Timberwolves were a feel-good story of the 2023-24 NBA season. After years of building through the draft, Tim Connelly swung for the fences by acquiring Rudy Gobert in 2022. The trade didn't bring the immediate uptick in production the front office had hoped for.

However, after a full season together, Karl-Anthony Towns and Gobert clicked throughout their second year together. Anthony Edwards's ever-improving performances undoubtedly played a big role for the Timberwolves, too. Nevertheless, Chris Finch's team ultimately fell to the Dallas Mavericks in the Western Conference Finals.

When speaking on a recent episode of "Podcast P with Paul George," Towns defended his team's postseason performance. He noted how the franchise had made significant strides to make it so deep into the playoffs and that the experience will only serve to improve their approach moving forward.

“I don’t think it was a disappointment in any sort of fashion,” Towns said. "I think that we said early on in the year, we want to do something special ... We obviously did something right I think that for us to get to that next step I think it was the experience, I think you know sometimes people make it happen you win, even the Boston Celtics who won it this year, they had to go through a time when they lost in the Finals"

Towns has faced consistent speculation over his future in Minnesota. He is often rumored to be drawing interest from the New York Knicks. However, no trade has ever materialized, allowing him to remain as a centerpiece to the Timberwolves' chances of challenging for a championship in the coming years.

Minnesota will likely count themselves fortunate to still have Towns on their roster and committed to bringing success to the franchise. Last season, he made his fourth All-Star appearance and produced on both sides of the floor despite a slightly diminished role due to the presence of Gobert.

In 62 regular-season games, the veteran big man averaged 21.8 points, 8.3 rebounds and three assists per game, shooting 41.6% from three-point range and 55% from inside the perimeter.

The Timberwolves will undoubtedly face some stern competition in a loaded West. Yet, with Towns and Edwards leading the charge, they have a high chance of returning to the Western Conference Finals next season. If they can get there, their own fate will be in their hands.