Karl-Anthony Towns' Contract Talks Stall With Knicks as $272 Million Question Looms
Negotiations for an extension have stalled, with the Knicks reportedly asking the star player to take a discount on his potential maximum contract.
Contract extension discussions between the New York Knicks and star center Karl-Anthony Towns have stalled as training camp approaches, though neither side has definitively ended negotiations. Towns has been eligible for an extension since early August, and reports indicate the Knicks are seeking a discount from the maximum four-year, $272 million deal he could command.
This request stems from the front office's strategy to maintain the team's core players while adhering to owner James Dolan's directive to stay under the NBA's second salary cap apron. With Jalen Brunson also eligible for a significant extension next year, the Knicks are exercising caution with their current spending. Towns, a multiple-time All-Star, is a key figure in these financial considerations.
While the specifics of the Knicks' offer to Towns remain undisclosed, ESPN reported that reaching a deal before training camp is unlikely. This situation is expected to remain a topic of discussion throughout the upcoming season.
Despite the current impasse, a league source emphasized that conversations between the team and Towns have been cordial and positive, expressing a desire for him to remain with the Knicks long-term. "And just because a deal isn’t done now doesn’t mean it can’t get done," the source told The Post.
Towns was also eligible for an extension prior to the previous season but no agreement was reached. He has previously expressed a desire to stay with the Knicks, playing a crucial role in their championship run by transforming into a playmaking force and improving his defense during the playoffs.
Both parties appear to hold leverage. The Knicks have the advantage of time, as Towns' contract eligibility extends throughout the season. For Towns, the potential threat of free agency in 2027 looms, especially with the security of a player option. If his performance this season is subpar or he suffers an injury, he could exercise that option and secure a $61 million salary for the 2027-28 campaign.
The Knicks have already made financial concessions to manage their salary cap, notably allowing Mitchell Robinson to depart in free agency this summer and sign with the Boston Celtics. Towns, considered the Knicks' second or third-best player during the playoffs, holds greater importance to the team's future.
Other Knicks players, including Josh Hart and Miles McBride, are also eligible for contract extensions. Hart has a team option, while McBride is set to become a free agent next summer without a deal.
The Knicks are scheduled to host Media Day on Monday at their Tarrytown facility, where Towns is expected to be questioned about his contract negotiations. It is noteworthy that Towns has a longstanding professional relationship with team president Leon Rose, who previously represented him as an agent.
Last season, when asked by The Post about the lack of an extension, Towns stated his strong desire to remain with the Knicks, emphasizing the importance of being home with his family and connecting with the fans, noting that "It means more than the money."