“I’m an elite defender,” he said after collecting three blocks in the Knicks’ 125-119 overtime win. “I don’t think I got to say that.” With Karl-Anthony Towns shelved because of an injured thumb, Achiuwa, the Knicks’ lone frontcourt reserve behind starter Jericho Sims, played all but a few seconds of the fourth quarter and overtime.

The New York Knicks needed a player to step up big time on Wednesday against the Philadelphia 76ers with Karl-Anthony Towns out. Jalen Brunson stole the show on the scoring front, but Precious Achiuwa made his presence felt defensively.

Minnesota has All-Star Julius Randle, reigning Sixth Man of the Year Naz Reid, and reigning Defensive Player of the Year Rudy Gobert all situated in their frontcourt. That talented trio poses a variety of threats to the Knicks, even with a healthy Towns in the lineup.

Edwards posted game highs in points (36), rebounds (13) and assists (seven) to lead Minnesota to a win on Friday.

The Knicks, meanwhile, were inefficient offensively without Karl-Anthony Towns, who sat in street clothes — though not in Eagles gear this time — while nursing a sprained thumb. Jalen Brunson scored 26 points but shot just 9-for-23 with five assists. No other Knick had 20 points.

Anthony Edwards had 36 points, a season-high 13 rebounds and seven assists, leading the Minnesota Timberwolves to a 116-99 victory over the New York Knicks.