Ex-Teammate Criticizes Knicks’ Karl-Anthony Towns Directly
The New York Knicks extended their winning streak to five games with a victory over the Brooklyn Nets. Coach Mike Brown conceded his team was outplayed despite the result.
Former Teammate’s Barbed Remarks
Josh Minott, who played with Karl-Anthony Towns in Minnesota, publicly targeted the Knicks center after the game. On March 21, 2026, Minott said Towns “doesn’t like physicality” and urged his teammates to bring contact.
The remark was shared on social media by reporter Erik Slater. Minott added he hopes the comment motivates Towns and that his team will focus on stopping him.
Game Details and Stats
Towns nearly missed the matchup because of a family emergency. He ultimately played 29 minutes and recorded a double-double.
He shot 7-of-16 from the field and 11-of-13 from the foul line. Towns finished with 26 points and 15 rebounds.
Minott came off the bench and made a strong impact. He posted 22 points on 8-of-13 shooting in 26 minutes, along with five rebounds, two assists, one steal, and two blocks.
Shared History and Recent Moves
Minott and Towns crossed paths in Minnesota. Minott entered the league in 2022 as the 45th overall pick.
Drafted by Charlotte, he was traded to the Timberwolves and signed a standard contract. He played three seasons in Minnesota and appeared in 93 games, all off the bench.
After the 2024-25 season, Minott left the Wolves. In July he signed a two-year deal with the Boston Celtics and played 33 games for them.
Ahead of the 2026 trade deadline, he was moved to Brooklyn. Friday’s matchup marked his 10th game with the Nets this season.
Context for the Rivalry
The matchup added fuel to the New York rivalry. Minott embraced the challenge despite his short time with Brooklyn.
The exchange generated bulletin-board material for the Knicks. Filmogaz.com will monitor any fallout as the teams meet again.
Note: Ex-Teammate Criticizes Knicks’ Karl-Anthony Towns Directly surfaced in postgame comments and social posts.
