Knicks Pause Extension Talks With Karl-Anthony Towns and Josh Hart

Extension Talks Put On Hold

The New York Knicks announced on Friday that contract extension negotiations with Karl-Anthony Towns and Josh Hart are paused until later in the season. A team spokesperson stated that the entire focus of the organization is on preparing for the upcoming season and delivering another strong run for the fans.

Towns is eligible for a four year deal worth over $276 million. He is scheduled to earn $57 million this season and holds a $61.1 million player option for next season. The Knicks made an offer of around $200 million across four years, but talks have stopped for now.

Frustrations And Spending Limits

Towns expressed frustration with the situation on Monday. He said he wants to do something that can keep the team together, work with the Knicks, and value his contributions, but added that none of those things have come close to happening.

The six time All Star averaged 15.9 points, 10.6 rebounds, and 4.9 assists during the postseason run that ended New York's 53 year title drought in five games over the San Antonio Spurs. Hart is also eligible for an extension. He will make $20.9 million this season, with a team option for $22.3 million in the 2027 to 2028 season.

Owner James Dolan said the franchise will not enter the second spending apron, forcing tough financial choices. Those limits already led to the departure of backup center Mitchell Robinson, who signed with the Boston Celtics. Jalen Brunson and OG Anunoby will also be eligible for extensions next summer.

What it means for the next game

Minnesota Timberwolves at New York Knicks (NBA, Mon, 12 Oct): New York Knicks win 74%, Minnesota Timberwolves win 26%; projected score New York Knicks 118, Minnesota Timberwolves 111. Our safest pick: Timberwolves +15.5.

New York Knicks at Toronto Raptors (NBA, Tue, 13 Oct): Toronto Raptors win 39%, New York Knicks win 61%; projected score Toronto Raptors 108, New York Knicks 111. Our safest pick: Raptors +10.5.