Coming off his arguably his most productive season, Knicks All-Star Karl-Anthony Towns averaged 24.4 points, 12.8 rebounds, and 3.1 assists last season. While entering his prime, Towns is earning himself a short-term extension similar to what All-Star Devin Booker received from the Suns.

The Knicks and Cleveland Cavaliers are the co-favorites to represent the East in the 2026 championship series. As far as New York is concerned, former NBA center and current ESPN personality Kendrick Perkins said the pressure is squarely on Karl-Anthony Towns to take his game to the next level and deliver the city the Larry O'Brien Trophy.