The New York Knicks are the defending NBA Finals champions, and their season is just hours from starting. However, before the preseason began, there were some interesting developments surrounding contract extension negotiations.
Karl-Anthony Towns' name was at the forefront of the discussions, as it was clear he was going to have to take a pay cut. After a couple of weeks of trying to get something sorted out, New York decided to pause negotiations to focus on the regular season.
“As an organization, our entire focus is on preparing for the upcoming season and delivering another year for our fans to be proud of. As a result, we will not be negotiating contract extensions until later in the season and will remain solely focused on preparing for the start of the season," a Knicks spokesperson told ESPN's Shams Charania.
It was something Towns was unaware of, but the organization had its reasons for shutting down the talks. Towns made it clear that he was unhappy with the decision.
“It was news to me. Very disappointed to say the least. Let's state the obvious. It's business, but there is business on the court for us to handle,” Towns said.
In a recently released interview with ESPN’s Malika Andrews, Towns discussed the upcoming season. He was also asked about where he wanted his future to be and why he was willing to take a pay cut.
“I want us all to stay together. That's always been my main priority. Nowhere in my mind was a max contact was even thought about,” Towns told Andrews.
It is clear that Towns wants to play for the Knicks, but it is just a matter of how far he is willing to come down financially. The veteran center is already willing to take a pay cut, and he wants the team to stay together.
New York could have Towns under contract for years to come if the two sides can reach an agreement, but it remains to be seen whether that will happen. For now, things seem quiet during the regular season, but talks could resume at any time.
