In a monumental move that reaffirms the New York Knicks' ambition to build a formidable team, Jalen Brunson has signed a four-year, $156 million contract extension. This substantial deal underscores the franchise's commitment to its star point guard, cementing Brunson's status as a pivotal component of the Knicks' core.
Brunson’s contributions on the court have evidently earned the faith of the Knicks' front office, as this extension indicates a long-term vision where he remains integral to their competitive aspirations. This is a significant statement from a franchise that is looking to make a deep impact in the coming seasons.
Mikal Bridges' Extension Potential
Mikal Bridges, another rising star in the NBA, became eligible for a contract extension under the league's extend-and-trade rules on October 1. These rules permit Bridges to secure a contract extension with specific financial enhancements. Notably, Bridges had previously locked in a four-year, $90 million rookie extension with the Phoenix Suns back in 2021.
Following his trade on July 6, Bridges finds himself in a dynamic position regarding his contractual future. The extend-and-trade regulations enable him to sign a deal spanning up to four years, featuring a 20% raise in the first year of the new contract and 5% annual raises thereafter. This mechanism facilitates Bridges possibly signing for an additional $61.2 million in new money, on top of the remaining two years of his current deal.
The financial landscape for Bridges becomes even more interesting if he chooses to wait until the next offseason. By doing so, he could potentially ink a contract worth approximately $113 million over three additional years. Starting July 1, 2025, the veteran extension guidelines become applicable, allowing for even more substantial salary increases. Under these guidelines, Bridges could secure a 40% raise in the first new year, followed by 8% annual raises, culminating in a total contract value of around $156 million over four new years and approximately $181 million in total.
Looking further ahead, the 2026 offseason opens up another lucrative pathway for Bridges. Should he elect to sign a five-year deal starting at 30% of the salary cap with 8% annual raises, he stands to earn up to $296 million. However, it's important to note that if Bridges were to negotiate with another team, the maximum potential contract he could secure would span four years with 5% annual raises.
OG Anunoby’s Landmark Deal
In a separate but equally headline-grabbing development, OG Anunoby has opted to re-sign with New York, securing a mammoth $212.5 million deal. This significant contract not only highlights Anunoby’s value to the team but also reflects the Knicks' ongoing strategy to invest heavily in proven talent.
These strategic moves by the Knicks signal a clear intention to construct a robust and competitive lineup capable of challenging at the highest levels of the NBA. Both Brunson's and Anunoby's extensions are pivotal components in this vision, as they provide the team with stable, high-caliber talent around which to build their strategies.
The combined financial commitments to Brunson, Bridges, and Anunoby illustrate a forward-thinking approach, emphasizing a blend of experienced leadership and dynamic skillsets. As the Knicks continue to solidify their roster, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how these significant investments translate to performance on the court.
In an ever-evolving NBA landscape, the ability to secure top talent through strategic contract negotiations is crucial. The Knicks' recent extensions are clear indicators that the franchise is not only aware of this necessity but is also prepared to act decisively to maintain and enhance its competitive edge.