Could Josh Hart Be the Next Knick to Get an Extension?

The New York Knicks have already made one important decision regarding their extension-eligible players this offseason. Now, . For a team coming off its first championship in 53 years, deciding which members of its core to lock up long-term could be one of the most important parts of the offseason.

Hart is entering the 2026-27 season on the final guaranteed year of his current , which will pay him approximately $20.9 million. The Knicks also hold a team option worth roughly $22.4 million for 2027-28. Despite already having control of Hart for at least another season, New York could look to secure his future now rather than wait.

What Could a Hart Extension Look Like?

There is a wide range of possibilities for Hart’s next contract.

Under NBA extension rules, Hart could theoretically a four-year extension worth up to approximately $132 million. That number, however, represents the maximum he could receive — not what the Knicks are expected to offer.

A more realistic projection has Hart landing around three years and $54-$62 million, putting his average annual salary between $18 million and just over $20 million.

That type of deal would give Hart long-term security while allowing New York to avoid another massive contract as they continue navigating an expensive roster.

And Hart has certainly earned a significant raise. Last season, he averaged 12.0 points, 7.4 rebounds and 4.8 assists while shooting 50.8% from the field. His value, however, goes well beyond his scoring. Hart has become one of New York’s most important rebounders, defenders, and energy players while serving as one of the team’s veteran leaders.

His importance became even more evident during the Knicks’ championship run, when he repeatedly provided crucial rebounding and defensive plays throughout the postseason.

Why Deuce Matters

Hart’s extension situation becomes even more interesting because of what the Knicks just decided to do with McBride.

McBride was also eligible for an extension this offseason, but New York chose not to give him one before the Aug. 11 deadline. McBride is entering the of his three-year, $13 million contract and is scheduled to make less than $4 million in 2026-27.

The decision does not necessarily mean the Knicks don’t view McBride as part of their future. Instead, it gives them flexibility.

An extension would have triggered a six-month trade restriction. By keeping McBride on his current contract, New York can still use his extremely team-friendly deal in a potential trade during the season.

That flexibility could be valuable for a Knicks team trying to improve a championship roster.

McBride has also become considerably more valuable since signing his current contract. He averaged 12.0 points per game while shooting 41.3% from three last season, making his bargain contract one of the more attractive assets on New York’s roster.

According to of SNY, Hart is more likely to receive an extension than McBride, making the contrast between the two situations particularly notable.

KAT Could Change Everything

Towns is the Knicks’ second superstar behind

The Knicks could keep their core together for the next 3-5 years IF Karl-Anthony Towns and Josh Hart are willing to take a pay cut, per

KAT is eligible for a 4-year, $272M extension.

"If Karl Towns is willing to take a little bit of a haircut, you know, $7-10…

— NBABase (@TheNBABase)

Hart Could Be Next

The Knicks still have financial decisions to make, and that could influence how much New York is willing to commit to Hart.

Still, early indications suggest Hart is in a strong position to receive a new deal.

A contract in the neighborhood of three years and $60 million would seem to make sense for both sides. Hart would receive significant guaranteed money and remain with the team through another important portion of its championship window, while the Knicks would retain one of the players who helped define their identity without committing to an enormous long-term contract.

The Knicks have already chosen flexibility over certainty with Deuce McBride. Now, they have to decide whether Josh Hart is worth doing the opposite for.

After passing on Deuce, Hart could be the next member of the Knicks’ championship core to get paid.

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