Knicks' Karl-Anthony Towns addresses failed contract extension talks

The New York Knicks' decision to trade for Karl-Anthony Towns in early October 2024 was a league-shattering move at the time. They've knocked on the door of the NBA Finals, and now Towns has become an integral part of the Knicks' core.

That's why it was a bit surprising that Towns didn't get a contract extension before the Oct. 20 deadline. The 30-year-old was eligible to get two more years and $150 million on his current contract. Even so, that doesn't mean he won't stay in the Big Apple. When asked about his future with the team, Towns reaffirmed his desire to be a Knick.

Karl-Anthony Towns wants to stay in New York

“Hell yeah. Hell yeah, I want to stay here,” Towns told Stefan Bondy of The New York Post before the loss to the Celtics. “Obviously ,get a chance to be home, see my family. It means more than the money, you know. So just to be able to be here with the fans, be with the family. It means a lot. I would like it to continue.” 

Towns later confirmed that he has a great relationship with the front office, and he's going to keep talking about his future with the team:

“Me, [team president Leon Rose] and [Senior VP of basketball operations Gersson Rosas] and everyone, we’re great,” Towns said. “I’ll go have lunch with them right now. We’re good.” 

The five-time All-Star will be eligible for an extension again after the 2026 NBA Finals. He could get as many as $260 million over four years. As of now, he has two years and $110 million left on his contract, with a $61 million player option for the 2027-28 season. 

Towns is averaging 21.7 points and 11.9 rebounds per game in his first year under head coach Mike Brown's tutelage. While his defense will always be a talking point, Towns's offensive skills and versatility should continue to make him a centerpiece of the organization.