The New York Knicks are making a few moves after acquiring Karl-Anthony Towns from the Minnesota Timberwolves in exchange for Julius Randle, Donte DiVincenzo and a future first-round pick.

The trade is stunning as both teams are just days away from the start of training camp in potential competitive seasons, but both feel this is the best trade for them.

Here are three reasons the Knicks made the deal:

The Knicks needed a center so badly that they didn’t want to enter the season trying to test their current depth behind Mitchell Robinson, who suffered an injury last season and required two surgeries to correct it.

The Knicks also had no confidence in Robinson as a starter when he returned, forcing New York to make a trade.

Without many trading assets, they pulled the trigger on their biggest one by moving Randle to bring in Towns.

The Knicks were hoping to get Randle back early in the regular season, and there wasn’t much evidence that he wouldn’t be healthy.

However, the Knicks didn’t want to waste another season with Randle potentially getting injured. They have depth at the wing position with Josh Hart, Mikal Bridges and OG Anunoby, and they all fit alongside Jalen Brunson.

The Knicks were willing to work out Randle because he’s a three-time All-Star and can fit anywhere, but they probably feel Towns fits in more lineups.

The Knicks negotiated a possible extension with Randle for over a month, but no progress was made.

Randle has the option to waive his player option and become a free agent after the season.

The Knicks likely weren’t able to find a solution and they wanted to make sure they got value in return. They potentially make this trade a winner by signing the best player, but also ensure they don’t create a major hole in their roster.

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