The Knicks returned from the All-Star break even more shorthanded than they’d been in the weeks before the NBA shutdown. But even with workhorse guard Josh Hart added to the street-clothes crew with a knee injury,

Karl-Anthony Towns posted 32 points and 18 rebounds as the New York Knicks held on for a 113-111 overtime victory over the visiting Chicago Bulls on Thursday. Towns shot just 2-of-15 in the first half but made 12 of his next 15 shots to finish 14-of-30.

Aside from what he’s done individually, Towns’ skill set and presence has helped create one of the best offenses in basketball. It’s not just his shot making, it’s his passing. It’s not just his size, but the gravity he provides as a shooter at his size.

The short answer is yes. The bone chip in Towns’ thumb is still an issue and it will be an issue for the rest of the season. But give Towns credit; he seems to have adjusted well to the injury.

Karl-Anthony Towns’ overall presence, including his passing ability, has opened the Knicks’ offense in ways we haven’t seen previously in the Tom Thibodeau era.