The New York Knicks face a difficult decision as Karl-Anthony Towns’ contract extension talks remain stalled.
Chris Haynes reported that the star center is willing to accept less than the maximum, but the two sides remain far apart.
The update comes days after Towns expressed frustration with negotiations.
With New York determined to maintain financial flexibility, the dispute could become a key storyline before the regular season.
Chris Haynes Reveals a Sizable Contract Gap
Speaking about the negotiations, Haynes revealed that Towns is prepared to compromise.
However, the Knicks and his representatives have yet to find common ground.
“Sources have relayed to me that sides still remain far apart on an extension,” Haynes said.
He added, “Karl-Anthony Towns is willing to take less, but they’re nowhere close to that.”
As per reports, Towns is eligible for a four-year, $277 million maximum extension. The Knicks have reportedly offered a four-year deal worth $200 million. That leaves a potential $77 million gap between the two sides.
Haynes also explained Towns’ position. The center believes he has already sacrificed for the team and helped New York win a championship. He wants the contract situation resolved sooner rather than later.
But as we all know, owner James Dolan’s reluctance to cross the NBA’s second luxury-tax apron remains a major obstacle.
The Knicks must balance rewarding their championship core with maintaining financial flexibility.
Towns addressed the situation on October 5. When asked about signing an extension before the regular season, he said, “It don’t look good.”
He also made his priorities clear.
“Simply put, I want to do something to keep the team together and work with the Knicks and also values me,” Towns said. “And none of those things are close to happening.” as per Reuters.
Trade Questions Add Pressure on the Knicks
The unresolved negotiations have also raised questions about Towns’ long-term future in New York.
Some Knicks-focused coverage has floated the possibility of him becoming a trade candidate if the standoff continues. However, there is no confirmed report that the Knicks are actively shopping him.
Losing Towns would be a significant decision. He averaged 15.9 points, 10.6 rebounds and 4.9 assists during the Knicks’ championship playoff run.
His preseason performances have been modest so far. In Thursday’s 111-109 loss to the Washington Wizards, Towns recorded eight points, seven rebounds and three assists in 19 minutes. He shot 2-of-7 from the field.
He had five points, five rebounds and two assists in the previous loss to Philadelphia.
Across those two preseason games, Towns is averaging 6.5 points, six rebounds and 2.5 assists.
Meanwhile, the Knicks also face extension decisions involving Josh Hart and Miles McBride. Jalen Brunson and OG Anunoby present further long-term contract considerations.
What I think is, for now, Towns’ willingness to accept less than the maximum offers a potential starting point.
But until the Knicks improve their proposal or both sides find a compromise, the sizable gap remains a concern for the defending champions.
Knicks Receive Eye-Opening Update on Karl-Anthony Towns’ Contract Standoff