Karl-Anthony Towns Prefers Knicks Extension as Green Ranks

Karl-Anthony Towns wants to stay with the New York Knicks. The champion center's clear preference is to sign a contract extension, according to NBA insider Brian Windhorst, though he could become a free agent next summer.

What is Karl-Anthony Towns' contract situation?

Towns has a $57.0 million salary for the 2026-2027 season. Next summer, he holds a $61.0 million player option. The Knicks can offer him an extension to keep their core together, but the financial commitment is massive. Windhorst, speaking on The Hoop Collective podcast, stated the player's position plainly. "His preference is to extend in New York, but he can be a free agent," Windhorst said.

The Knicks built their title-winning roster through trades and signings, making salary cap management a constant challenge. If New York doesn't offer the max, another team likely will. Towns, 30, is a six-time All-Star and three-time All-NBA selection who just averaged 22.8 points and 11.1 rebounds for the champs.

Where does Draymond Green rank Karl-Anthony Towns?

Draymond Green recently placed Towns as the NBA's third-best big man. The Golden State Warriors forward snubbed Philadelphia's Joel Embiid for the spot, citing a blunt rationale. "The best ability is availability," Green said, highlighting Towns' durability compared to Embiid's injury history. This public endorsement from a respected defensive stalwart adds to Towns' value as he enters extension talks.

Green's ranking sparks debate but shows Towns' respected status league-wide. His scoring, rebounding, and floor-spacing as a center are now complemented by a championship pedigree.

Is the max extension a smart move for the Knicks?

Paying a 30-year-old center a supermax deal carries risk, but the Knicks may have no choice. Towns was instrumental in their 2026 championship run. His skill set is rare for a player of his size. Letting him walk in free agency would create a massive hole in their lineup with few realistic replacements.

The team's financial picture is tight. Juggling Towns' potential max deal with other salaries will test the front office's creativity. It's a high-stakes decision that will shape the Knicks' contention window for years to come.

• Towns' Preference: The center wants a long-term extension to remain with the New York Knicks.
• Financial Facts: He earns $57.0 million this season and has a $61.0 million player option for 2027-2028.
• Peer Recognition: Draymond Green ranks Towns as the NBA's third-best big man, ahead of Joel Embiid.
• Proven Production: Towns is coming off a season averaging 22.8 points and 11.1 rebounds for the NBA champions.