Karl-Anthony Towns’ Knicks dominance goes far beyond 3-point shooting

After Karl-Anthony Towns dropped 31 points on New Year’s Day, Utah coach Will Hardy explained why the Knicks center’s long-distance shooting was more reputation than reality.

It was meant and received as a compliment.

Defenders are so worried about his treys that they sell out and give up easier looks in the paint. 

As Hardy said, Towns’ “3s are loud, but the reality is he took 20 shots, and only six were 3s. … I’ve been a part of way more nights playing against Towns where the threat of the 3 hurts you more than the 3 itself.” 

“I’m honored that’s kind of my mystique that I have shooting the ball, that you’re worried about me shooting and then when I do shoot and make it, it feels like five 3-pointers in one, so that’s good for our team,” Towns responded recently. “I’m happy about that.” 

Over three weeks and a thumb injury later, the discussion is relevant again but with a new question: What happens if Towns’ 3-pointer is no longer such a threat?