Karl-Anthony Towns is willing to take a pay cut to remain with the New York Knicks, but the reduction the team is seeking is reportedly viewed as unreasonable by the four-time All-Star.
Malika Andrews reported that Towns is open to following a similar path to Jalen Brunson, who accepted less than his maximum earning potential to help the Knicks maintain their roster.
“From what I have been told is willing, similarly to what Jalen Brunson did,” Andrews said. “Numbers aren’t the same, but he is also willing to take a pay cut. But the pay cut that the Knicks are asking him to take, he views as unreasonable.”
The situation comes as extension negotiations between Towns and New York have stagnated. Shams Charania reported on September 23 that the two sides had discussed a new deal extensively throughout the offseason, but an agreement before training camp was considered unlikely.
Towns is entering the second season of his three-year, $220.4 million contract. The deal includes a $61 million player option for the 2027-28 season, giving him the ability to potentially enter free agency next summer if he declines the option.
The Knicks have significant financial considerations as they attempt to keep their championship core together. Owner James Dolan has said the organization does not want to cross the NBA’s second tax apron, while New York would project to be above that threshold next season if it simply retains its current commitments.
Towns was a major part of the Knicks’ championship season in 2025-26, averaging 20.1 points, 11.9 rebounds and 3.0 assists in 75 regular-season games. He shot 50.1% from the field, 36.8% from three-point range and 85.8% from the free-throw line.
The big man was also productive during his first season in New York after arriving from Minnesota in the 2024 offseason. He averaged 24.4 points and 12.8 rebounds in 72 games in 2024-25, earning All-NBA Third Team honors.
New York went 53-29 last season before winning 16 of 19 playoff games to capture its first NBA championship since 1973. Towns enters the new season alongside Jalen Brunson, OG Anunoby, Mikal Bridges and Josh Hart as the Knicks attempt to defend their title.
However, maintaining that group has become increasingly complicated under the NBA’s financial rules. Towns is not the only important Knick eligible for an extension, with Hart also able to negotiate a new deal.
