Karl‑Anthony Towns says Knicks’ pause on contract talks was “news to me”

The Knicks announced a pause on extension talks, prompting Towns to voice his disappointment and clarify his willingness to work on a deal.

By Felo News Desk · Published Mon, 12 Oct 2026 01:46:22 GMT

Karl‑Anthony Towns said the New York Knicks’ decision to suspend contract‑extension negotiations was “news to me” and left him “very disappointed,” according to statements reported on Friday.

What happened

On Friday, the Knicks released a statement—distributed through ESPN’s Shams Charania—stating the organization would not negotiate any contract extensions until later in the 2026‑27 season. The announcement came as the team prepared for the upcoming NBA season. Towns, a six‑time All‑Star, responded publicly on Sunday, expressing surprise at the pause.

What the reports add

Bleacher Report, citing James L. Edwards III of The Athletic, quoted Towns saying, “It was news to me… Very disappointed, to say the least.” The outlet also noted that the Knicks’ statement emphasized a focus on preparing for the season and delivering a successful year for fans.
The New York Post reported that the Knicks had previously offered Towns a four‑year extension worth about $200 million, which Towns described as a $77 million reduction from his max contract and a pay cut from his $57 million annual salary. The Post added that Towns is willing to take a discount but not one as steep as the offer.

What was said

"It was news to me," Towns told reporters, as reported by Bleacher Report.
"Obviously very disappointed, to say the least. Let’s be honest here," he added, according to the New York Post.
The Knicks’ official statement said, "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."

How it came about

Earlier in the week, the Knicks announced a pause on contract talks for eligible players, including Towns and guard Josh Hart, as detailed in Felo News’ coverage on October 10 (Knicks pause contract talks with Hart and Towns as season approaches). That article noted Towns is eligible for a four‑year extension worth up to $276 million. The pause follows the team’s recent championship, their first since 1973, and comes amid broader league discussions about cap flexibility.

Key facts

The Knicks announced they will not negotiate contract extensions until later in the 2026‑27 season. (bleacherreport.com)
Karl‑Anthony Towns said the pause was "news to me" and expressed disappointment. (nypost.com)
The Knicks reportedly offered Towns a four‑year extension worth about $200 million. (nypost.com)
Towns is eligible for a four‑year extension worth up to $276 million.

Where accounts differ

Exact value of the extension offer: about $200 million (nypost.com); approximately $200 million, significantly less than the four‑year, $276 million max (bleacherreport.com)