Knicks, Josh Hart Reportedly Near Three-Year, Team‑Friendly Extension

A below-maximum deal would preserve New York’s payroll room to manage luxury-tax costs tied to future star decisions.

Overview

Hart became extension-eligible on August 10 and can technically sign a four-year deal worth about $132 million but no such offer appears likely.
Multiple reports say talks are focused on a shorter, three-year extension in the roughly $60 million range that would give Hart more security without a large long-term commitment from the Knicks.
Knicks sources and analysts argue the team prefers a smaller deal to avoid crossing the NBA’s second luxury-tax apron, which would add strict roster and transaction limits.
Hart publicly downplayed leaks about a lower offer with a joke, and no formal agreement has been announced, indicating talks are active but unfinished.
New York’s choice on Karl‑Anthony Towns’ option or extension remains the biggest wildcard because a large Towns contract would sharply reduce the team’s ability to fund other extensions.