Why is Karl-Anthony Towns not playing tonight against 76ers? Knicks star's absence from game explored (Apr. 1)

New York Knicks star Karl-Anthony Towns will miss Tuesday's bout against the Philadelphia 76ers. Ahead of the game, the Knicks confirmed that the All-Star big man was listed as out due to knee soreness. Leading up to the game, New York had Towns as questionable.

According to the Knicks, they will assign Mitchell Robinson as the starting center for the game, marking his first start of the 2024-25 NBA season since recovering from injury. The franchise's longest-tenured player has appeared in 13 games, averaging 4.5 points and 5.5 rebounds in 15.9 minutes.

Alongside Towns, All-Star Jalen Brunson remains sidelined with an ankle injury. Miles McBride (groin) and Cameron Payne (ankle) are also not available for the matchup.

Karl-Anthony Towns is working hard to develop chemistry with Robinson

The Knicks haven't explored having both Karl-Anthony Towns and Mitchell Robinson be their starting frontcourt. KAT has developed his chemistry with the rest of the starters and moving him to the power forward could affect his dynamic with the others. Additionally, Robinson is still finding his rhythm on the floor as he has just returned from being injured for some time.

Still, the two Knicks centers are gradually developing their teamwork on the floor. When asked about the state of his chemistry with Robinson, Towns explained that it's been a two-way exchange for the both of them. They're working together to try and lead the team to wins whenever they're on the floor at the same time.

"I think he's good," KAT said. "I think we're doing a good job finding ways to win with each other on the court at the same time. We've got a great relationship. Translates on the court. We have a good chemistry going."

It's encouraging to hear Towns discuss strengthening his bond with the former starting center for the Knicks. They haven't been on the court together for too long, though. The coaching staff is still being cautious with Robinson.

The big man has reached the 20-minute mark once this year. On March 17, the Knicks had a 116-95 win against the Miami Heat, and the 27-year-old player played 23 minutes. He finished the game with 10 points, nine rebounds and two blocks.

With KAT and Robinson, New York might have a leg up in the postseason. Because of this, how well the Knicks perform after the regular season will be greatly influenced by how well the two centers get along on the floor.

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