Knicks and Karl-Anthony Towns negotiate extension amid differing valuations

The New York Knicks have presented Karl-Anthony Towns with a four-year extension estimated at $200 million, short of the $276 million maximum he could command as a 30-year-old All-Star. Towns, who expressed a desire for a deal that "keeps the team together and works with the Knicks and also values me," said previous offers have not met his expectations.

NBA insiders note that Towns helped the Knicks secure their first championship in 53 years, contributing on both ends of the floor during the Finals. His availability has been high, appearing in 90 % of regular-season games and all playoff contests over the past two seasons. Comparisons were drawn to recent extensions for other big men, suggesting a four-year, $220 million deal would place his average annual value between those of Bam Adebayo and Nikola Jokić.

Knicks officials argue that a $200 million offer aligns with Towns' age and role, citing his three third-team All-NBA selections and a playoff usage rate of about 20 %. They contend that paying a player who is not a top-10 star upwards of $50 million per season is difficult under the current salary-cap landscape.

If an agreement is not reached by Oct. 19, Towns could exercise a $61 million player option for 2027-28, decline it, become a free agent, or explore a sign-and-trade. Analysts suggest that picking up the option and then negotiating a new four-year deal starting in 2028-29 could provide the most guaranteed money.

"I want to do something that can keep the team together and work with the Knicks and also values me," Towns said.

The negotiations are expected to continue through the start of the season, with both sides weighing financial constraints and the player's contribution to the Knicks' recent success.