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USA Today via Reuters

USA Today via Reuters

After an 18-game absence, Karl Anthony Towns returned in the thick of the action against the Atlanta Hawks. Despite being rusty upon his return, scoring only 11 points with 8 assists and a block, the Minnesota Timberwolves managed to grab the game away from the Hawks by three points with a final score of 106-109. However, it’s not Kat’s stat line that’s catching everyone’s eyes, it’s his weight.

According to a post on X, “Word is KAT is down 20 pounds since he got hurt. Does look thinner on the floor — maybe not 20 pounds thinner, but thinner.” This might be worrying news for fans as the T-wolves depend on the size of Kat a lot.

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During the 18 games that Towns missed, Minnesota achieved a commendable 12-6 record. Their offense averaged 115.3 points per 100 possessions, while their defense was dominant, allowing only 108.6 points per 100 possessions. Essentially, the Wolves maintained the same level of performance as before Towns’ injury. A significant portion of the credit for this accomplishment belongs to the impressive big man Naz Reid, who has emerged as one of the leading candidates for the Sixth Man of the Year award.

Still, the Timberwolves would need Kat in the playoffs, but his meniscus injury has eaten his size up.  That’s why fans in the comments are extremely worried about the T-Wolves playoff hopes.

Fans shocked by Karl Anthony Towns’ 20-pound change

Fans flogged the comment section with varied opinions. One fan wrote, “He said in the post game interview that he cut Carbs and is trying to eat healthier! Less weight and stress on his knee(s).”

While another one sang Towns’ praises, the power forward, saying, ” Unbelievable work ethic and discipline to get himself back on the floor in about a month. No one can question his commitment to winning.” Towns underwent surgery for meniscus tear early in March which is expected to take months to recover for someone physically active. Now, with him back within a month, the fan’s response was only natural.

One user noticed the transformation, further questioning how it could affect his play, specifically his shot and ability to get to the rim with the playoffs nearing.

Another user pointed out, that 20lbs looked quite noticeable on KAT due to his 7 feet stature which wouldn’t be the case otherwise.

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Finally, someone actually liked the new version of Kat saying, “I thought he looked quicker.” 

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While Naz Reid has taken on the role efficiently in Towns’ absence for the Wolves, the latter now seems ready to highlight his presence, 20lbs less or not. “Having had so much time to watch this team and watch from a different lens gave me a good understanding of what I can do when I go out there to help this team and impact it the most,” he said post-win. As Reid sees lesser minutes, KAT will look to lead the offense with his 22.1 points, 8.4 rebounds, and 3.0 assists average.