Knicks Title Run Raises Big Offseason Questions About Towns and Free Agency

The New York Knicks finally ended their championship drought overnight, beating San Antonio 4-1 to win their first NBA title since 1973 and silence the long-running curse around the franchise. The immediate question now is what the defending champions will look like in 2026/27, especially after such a major breakthrough.

The core of the team is expected to stay together, since all five starters, Jalen Brunson, Karl-Anthony Towns, OG Anunoby, Mikal Bridges and Josh Hart, are under contract for at least two more seasons. The biggest issue is Towns, 30, whose deal runs through 2028 and includes a player option worth $61 million for 2027/28. He is eligible for a four-year, $272 million extension, but reports in the U.S. say New York may hesitate to make that kind of long-term financial commitment. Sam Amick of The Athletic recently reported that even if the Knicks win the title, they are not necessarily expected to hand Towns a huge new deal in order to protect their future flexibility. At the same time, the championship has turned KAT into a Madison Square Garden hero, which could strengthen his case.

Most of the uncertainty is in the rest of the roster. Backup guard Deuce McBride is signed for one more year, and Tyler Kolek for two more years with a team option in 2027/28, so both are likely to remain. President Leon Rose also has a team option for the next two seasons on young French forward Pacome Dadiet, who has barely played in the NBA so far.

Beyond those players, nearly everyone else is facing contract decisions. Precious Achiuwa has a player option worth $4.5 million for next season, while the rest, including center Mitchell Robinson, shooter Landry Shamet and veteran guard Jordan Clarkson, are on track for unrestricted free agency. Ariel Hukporti, Mou Diavara and Jeremy Sochan are also out of contract. Robinson, regarded as the NBA’s best offensive rebounder, is expected to draw the most interest, with the Lakers, Bulls, Hornets and Raptors reportedly monitoring him. Despite the title, the Knicks are not expected to make major changes, and the possibility of adding Giannis Antetokounmpo appears to be off the table.