Knicks make Karl-Anthony Towns extension priorities clear by letting deadline pass

Karl-Anthony Towns can no longer sign an extension with the New York Knicks while picking up his $61 million player option after the October 19 deadline passed. Writer Dan Favale argues that letting the deadline pass signals the Knicks want Towns to take an immediate pay cut for the 2027-28 season. Towns must now decline his player option if he wishes to reach an in-season agreement.

Favale highlights recent reports indicating New York offered Towns between $45 million and $50 million annually on an extension. The writer explains this approach provides the Knicks financial flexibility ahead of Jalen Brunson's expected contract raise and potential new deals for players like Josh Hart and Deuce McBride.