Knicks Pause Extension Talks Until Later in the Season

The New York Knicks have paused contract-extension negotiations with eligible players until later in the 2026-27 season, saying the organization is focused on preparing for the season. The decision leaves Josh Hart and Karl-Anthony Towns, among others, waiting for discussions to resume, with no new timetable announced. The Knicks announced the pause Friday. On Saturday, Hart said he was not highly stressed by the decision and planned to focus on basketball, while acknowledging that uncertainty about his future could weigh on him at times. He is eligible for a four-year extension worth about $131 million and is due to earn $20.9 million this season, according to reports. Hart had said before the season that he preferred to settle negotiations sooner, and warned that an unresolved situation by February could lead to a different conversation. After the team’s announcement, he described himself as focused on the season and said he remained under contract in New York. Knicks captain Jalen Brunson said Saturday that Hart and the rest of the team would remain professional and support one another regardless of contract circumstances.