Anthony Edwards and the new-look Minnesota Timberwolves faced the Chicago Bulls in a Wednesday night preseason clash at United Center. Amid the pregame player introductions, Chicago’s mascot Benny the Bull had fun at Minnesota’s expense. He displayed a comical sign questioning recently traded star center Karl-Anthony Towns’ whereabouts.
Towns, who spent his first nine seasons with the Timberwolves, was shipped to the New York Knicks in a three-team deal earlier this month. The unexpected move came after the four-time All-Star helped the franchise reach its first Western Conference finals since 2004.
Ahead of Wednesday’s contest, Benny the Bull made light of the trade while poking fun at the big man’s “KAT” nickname. The renowned mascot set up a sign on the court saying, “Missing KAT” as Minnesota’s players were introduced.
Underneath, the sign featured info about Towns and a phone number to call if he is found, mimicking a poster about a missing cat.
However, the Timberwolves appeared to ignore Benny the Bull’s humorous skit.
Bulls secure preseason victory over Timberwolves following mascot’s Karl-Anthony Towns-related troll job
While the Timberwolves appeared unfazed by Benny the Bull’s comical Karl-Anthony Towns sign, they didn’t get the last laugh. The Bulls ultimately secured a 125-123 home victory, led by combo guard Coby White’s game-high 23 points.
Nevertheless, Minnesota got its first look at star forward Julius Randle in his new uniform. The three-time All-Star, acquired in this month’s Towns deal, played his first game since Jan. 27 after recovering from right shoulder surgery.
Randle tallied 15 points, six rebounds, five assists and one steal, shooting 50.0% in 26 minutes as a starter in his Timberwolves debut.
Following Wednesday’s contest, Minnesota and Chicago each sit at 2-2 with one preseason game remaining. The Timberwolves conclude exhibition play on Thursday when they host the Denver Nuggets. A day later, the Bulls wrap up their preseason schedule at home against the Cleveland Cavaliers.
