Knicks explore financial route to extend Towns, Hart

New York Knicks may still be able to keep Karl-Anthony Towns and Josh Hart under contract for the long term while remaining below the NBA’s second tax apron. Speaking on NBA Today, ESPN salary-cap expert Bobby Marks said the franchise has reviewed scenarios that would allow both players to sign extensions and stay in New York beyond 2027.

According to Marks, Towns and Hart could be open to contract structures designed to help preserve the roster that delivered the franchise’s first championship since 1973. Negotiations, however, have been paused as the organization shifts its focus toward the upcoming season.

Marks also criticized owner James Dolan for publicly declaring that the Knicks would not exceed the second apron, arguing the statement reduced front-office flexibility.

Bigger financial hurdles could emerge later. Potential raises for Jalen Brunson and future extension talks involving Miles McBride are expected to place additional pressure on New York’s salary structure moving forward.