Karl-Anthony Towns did not expect the New York Knicks to publicly shut down contract extension talks, and he made clear Sunday that the decision caught him by surprise.
“It was news to me,” Towns told reporters after practice. “Very disappointed, to say the least. Let’s state the obvious: It’s business, but there is business on the court for us to handle.”
The Knicks announced that they would not negotiate extensions with their eligible players until later in the season, saying their immediate focus would be on preparing for the start of the 2026-27 campaign. The pause applies not only to Towns, but also to Josh Hart, Miles McBride and Tyler Kolek.
For Towns, the timing adds another layer to an already complicated contract situation.
The six-time All-Star is eligible for an extension worth up to four years and approximately $276 million, while New York has reportedly discussed a deal closer to four years and $200 million. Towns has previously said he is willing to work with the organization on a contract that helps preserve the team around him, but also wants a deal that reflects his value.
The gap between those positions has remained significant, and the Knicks’ decision to table negotiations appears to have only added to the frustration.
Financially, New York is trying to protect flexibility around a championship roster while navigating the restrictions of the second apron. Owner James Dolan has publicly indicated that the franchise does not want to operate above that threshold, making every major long-term commitment more complicated.
Towns, meanwhile, still holds a player option worth roughly $61 million for the 2027-28 season. If he declines it, he could eventually become an unrestricted free agent, giving the Knicks additional incentive to eventually find common ground.
Towns’ final point was about compartmentalizing the business side from the basketball side. New York is entering the season as the reigning champion, and Towns made clear that the unresolved contract situation will not change the responsibility he has on the floor.
