Does KAT deserve a comparison to Chris Bosh?

The excitement surrounding the New York Knicks is starting to feel excessive. While it’s great to see the Knicks in the spotlight, some comparisons may be better left unmade. Karl-Anthony Towns is a talented player—known for his shooting ability, size, and being a solid teammate—but likening him to a specific Hall of Fame center might be a stretch. Recently, Yahoo Sports’ Tom Haberstroh suggested, “Karl-Anthony Towns could be the Chris Bosh of this New York Knicks team.” While both players can stretch the floor, Towns stands out in shooting. Bosh had a career three-point shooting percentage of 33%, whereas Towns boasts an impressive 39.98% over his nine seasons.

Despite Towns’ offensive skills, solid defense is crucial for a center’s impact on a team’s championship aspirations. While Towns isn’t completely ineffective on defense, his limitations are part of why the Minnesota Timberwolves acquired Rudy Gobert.

Bosh transformed the game as a power forward who evolved into a stretch center during his time with the Miami Heat. His capacity to defend against unpredictable players like Manu Ginobili and switch onto quicker guards such as Tony Parker exemplified the versatility needed from a center, particularly at a championship level.

Towns has not demonstrated the same level of defensive performance. Additionally, defending players like Joel Embiid, Giannis Antetokounmpo, and Bam Adebayo is a significant challenge. While it’s reasonable to compare the Knicks’ star to Bosh as both are stretch fives, Towns needs to improve his defensive game to warrant such comparisons. It’s fine to be excited about the Knicks, but likening Towns to one of the most versatile defensive centers like Bosh could lead to disappointment.