What happened: The New York Knicks are not expected to reach extension agreements with Karl-Anthony Towns, Josh Hart, or Miles McBride prior to the start of the regular season, according to Ian Begley. The franchise intends to resolve the center's contract situation before addressing the other two rotation pieces.

Why it matters: The NBA's second apron creates severe roster-building constraints, making it difficult for the front office to secure long-term deals for all three players simultaneously. A significant financial divide remains between what New York is currently offering and what Towns is seeking in his next contract.

What to watch: The front office has until the start of the regular season to bridge the financial gap with Towns or negotiations will likely be paused.