NBA intel: KAT’s next deal, expansion’s next steps — and why rival teams are watching Orlando

NBA commissioner Adam Silver has signaled that a Seattle expansion franchise is no longer a certainty, using interest from Mexico City as potential leverage to raise bids. While Las Vegas expansion appears on track, Seattle's current proposals reportedly trail the potential $10 billion valuation seen in Vegas. NBA team owners are closely monitoring the situation, as each franchise projects an expansion windfall of $500 million to $600 million if two teams are added.

Meanwhile, the New York Knicks have paused contract extension talks with Karl-Anthony Towns to prioritize their title defense under owner James Dolan's second-apron cap limits. Elsewhere, rival teams are monitoring Orlando Magic guard Anthony Black, whose rookie extension talks remain unresolved as Orlando faces significant luxury tax pressures and roster costs following their acquisition of Desmond Bane.