The rumors regarding Karl-Anthony Towns' unhappiness in Minnesota began when a report surfaced that the New York Knicks were keeping tabs on the Timberwolves' All-Star center.
But the dysfunction of the Knicks' franchise caused most NBA fans to disregard that report, even though Towns is originally from the area in New Jersey.
Then, The Athletic's Ethan Strauss (subscription required) fanned the flame by saying the Warriors were also keeping a close eye on the Towns situation as Minnesota started to slide down the Western Conference standings.
That report caused the fanbase to feel a little uneasy that yet another star player was going to force his way out of Minnesota after becoming frustrated with the franchise.