The New York Knicks started the NBA Finals with high expectations, especially for center Karl-Anthony Towns. However, following a loss to the San Antonio Spurs in Game 3, his performance has faced intense scrutiny. This defeat marked the Knicks’ first loss in 46 days.

Towns’ lack of scoring in the final quarter has become a focal point. Highlighted by @NBAcrazystats, Towns has yet to score in the fourth quarter of the series’ three games. While contributing 50 points in the first three quarters, he hasn’t added any in the last quarter of any game.

Towns has been on the court for 29.1 minutes in the fourth quarter over these games, more than any of his teammates. In comparison, guard Jalen Brunson has played 26.9 minutes in the same period but has scored 32 points.

Initially praised for his performance against Spurs’ star Victor Wembanyama, Towns’ effectiveness has been questioned after Game 3. Wembanyama scored 32 points, overshadowing Towns, who managed only 11 points. ESPN’s Alan Hahn noted on Get Up that Towns was hesitant to take control on offense, which hampered the team’s efforts.

With Game 4 approaching on Wednesday, the Knicks need more from their 30-year-old center if they want to avoid losing their early advantage. Falling from a 2-0 lead to potentially losing the series would be a major setback for New York.