Charles Barkley reveals Karl-Anthony Towns ‘doesn’t know how to play’
The New York Knicks‘ blockbuster trade for Karl-Anthony Towns it should have been the final piece of the championship puzzle. Instead, it becomes a lightning rod for criticism, especially from one of the game’s most vocal legends.
During a recent appearance on NBA on ESPN, Hall of Famer Charles Barkley he didn’t hold back, claiming that the four-time All-Star “doesn’t know how to play basketball.” While Barkley acknowledged that Towns is a “great 7-foot shooter,” his gripe centered on his lack of situational awareness and “basketball IQ” on mismatches.
“The game dictates if you’re going to shoot 3s or if you’re going to line up,” Barkley explained. “When you’ve got a little guy on you, there’s no need to shoot 3s. … When you’ve got a big guy on you, like Joel Embiid, take him outside, put him in the pick-and-roll.”
“I won’t let my guardian be a little guy.” 😅
Charles Barkley discusses what he thinks needs to change in KAT’s game ahead of Rockets-Knicks ⤵ pic.twitter.com/IVseE2bimj
— NBA on ESPN (@ESPNNBA) February 22, 2026
Like New York preparing to host the Houston Rockets at Madison Square Garden, the team is looking for consistency.
2026-02-22 01:58:00
