The New York Knicks are trying to stay under the second tax apron, but that stance could be about to cost them big time. ESPN’s Shams Charania reported on Monday’s *NBA Today* that both Karl-Anthony Towns and Josh Hart are serious trade candidates this season if they don’t ink new contract extensions fast.
The Contract Standoff Threatening New York’s Roster
This isn’t just a quiet rumor floating around the league. Hart himself has already dropped hints about the situation heating up. Charania specifically said, “Josh Hart has already hinted that as this gets closer to February, which is around the trade deadline, the temperature could rise if Karl-Anthony Towns and Hart himself are not extended.” That’s not just speculation; that’s a player acknowledging the pressure cooker they’re in. The Knicks want to save some cash, but that could mean losing two critical pieces.
“Not Close” Means the Heat Is On
The core issue? Charania flat out reported, “So far, these sides are not close” on extensions for either player. That lack of progress, combined with the team’s desire to stay under the tax apron, puts them in a seriously tough spot. As we get closer to that February trade deadline, the rumors around Towns and Hart are only going to pick up steam. What happens next with these two is going to be a huge story, and it shows just how much is at stake when teams try to balance the books with keeping their stars happy.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Bleacher Report.
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