### Karl-Anthony Towns’ Status: A New Trend of Being Benched in Crucial Moments
In recent games, **Karl-Anthony Towns**’ presence on the bench during critical moments has become increasingly noticeable. In the recent matchup against the **New York Knicks**, which concluded with a 103-87 victory over the **Sacramento Kings**, Towns did not see action for the last 6:51 of the game.
Towns commented on his benching, stating, “He saw what he saw. We got a win, that’s the most important thing.”
#### Performance Overview
In the game, Towns scored **17 points**, despite struggling with his shooting, going **5-for-15** from the field. He also contributed **11 rebounds**, but his plus/minus rating of -3 was the lowest on the team. This performance stands in contrast to his recent minutes, which have dwindled noticeably.
– **Points**: 17
– **Shooting**: 5-for-15
– **Rebounds**: 11
– **Plus/Minus**: -3
#### Benchings Continue for Towns
This isn’t the first time Coach **Mike Brown** has opted for different lineup combinations in crunch time. During a game against the **Philadelphia 76ers**, Towns was also left on the bench late in the game, albeit due to foul trouble. In Tuesday’s game against the Kings, Brown preferred to finish with a lineup of **Jalen Brunson**, **Miles McBride**, **Mikal Bridges**, **OG Anunoby**, and **Mitchell Robinson**—components that brought out the team’s best performance at the end.
> “At the end of the game, we had a group out on the floor that was playing well,” said Brown. “It was a tight ballgame, so I just rode that group to the end of the game.”
#### Brown’s Coaching Strategy
Coach Brown’s philosophy revolves around identifying who is performing well during the flow of the game. He has demonstrated that he is unafraid to bench starters to maximize the team’s effectiveness. For instance, he previously benched Bridges late in a game as well.
– **Brown’s Approach**:
– **Player Performance Oriented**: He emphasizes a lineup that works well together.
– **Flexibility**: He adapts to the game situation rather than sticking rigidly to starting lineups.
#### Additional Notes
– Recently, players **Jordan Clarkson** and **Tyler Kolek** have been sidelined, both recording **Did Not Play (DNP)** statuses in the latest win, indicating Brown’s strategy of tightening his rotation in crucial matchups.
– With the Knicks currently at full strength, the focus shifts considerably to performance and results on the court.
Towns’ continued benching in key moments raises questions about his role in future games and how the Knicks’ coaching staff will manage the lineup going forward. As the season unfolds, the dynamic within the team and Towns’ position will be critical to their success.
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For more insights into the Knicks and their strategies, check out coverage on [ESPN](https://www.espn.com/nba/) and [NBA.com](https://www.nba.com/). Stay updated with the latest news and articles related to Towns and the Knicks.
