The New York Knicks are gearing up for the 2026-27 NBA season as defending champions, but a huge problem is already looming over their quest for another title. Karl-Anthony Towns, their All-Star big man, became eligible this summer for a massive four-year max contract extension worth over $272 million, and reports say the two sides still haven’t come to an agreement. It’s September, training camp starts Monday, and this kind of stagnation could absolutely shake up their season before it even begins.
Dolan’s Wallet and a Champion’s Dilemma
Knicks owner James Dolan made it pretty clear after the championship celebration: the team won’t go into the second apron to keep this group together. That stance already cost them Mitchell Robinson, who walked in free agency to the rival Boston Celtics. While New York hopes Robinson is replaceable, Towns is a completely different story. ESPN’s Shams Charania reported on Wednesday that extension talks have “stagnated” and a deal before Monday’s training camp is “unlikely.” Charania noted that the talks have been “cordial,” but there just hasn’t been any real movement lately. With Towns heading into the final guaranteed year of his contract, it’s clear the Knicks aren’t putting that full $272 million on the table.
KAT’s Clutch Performance Makes This Even Tougher
This situation is extra wild because Towns proved last season he can absolutely block out the noise and perform when it matters most. Remember when his name was flying around in trade rumors involving Giannis Antetokounmpo? He completely turned that page, going on to have a legitimate argument as the Knicks’ best player in the postseason. He wasn’t just good, he was elite. Last season, Towns averaged 20.1 points and 11.9 rebounds per game, shooting 50.1/36.8/85.8. But in their title run, he found another gear entirely, boasting incredible 55.1/45.6/90.9 splits. He has a $61 million player option for next season, and you know he’d opt out to chase a new long-term deal as an unrestricted free agent if an extension isn’t in place by June 30.
Failing to lock up Towns adds some serious uncertainty to New York’s bid to go back-to-back. Change is inevitable in the Big Apple if Dolan sticks to his word about the second apron. Even if they somehow get Towns’ deal done, Jalen Brunson and OG Anunoby are extension eligible next summer, and Josh Hart has a team option while he’s also waiting on his own extension. This is just the beginning of what could be a wild ride for the reigning champs, and fans are definitely going to be watching every single move.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by CBS Sports.
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