The New York Knicks have made a significant move to secure their future by signing Jalen Brunson to a four-year, $156 million contract extension. This major deal underscores the Knicks' commitment to building a competitive team around their talented point guard. By locking in Brunson, the Knicks are signaling to the rest of the NBA that they are serious about their ambitions to improve their standing in the league.
Meanwhile, Mikal Bridges finds himself in a position to potentially reshape his financial future. Bridges became eligible for an extension under the NBA's extend-and-trade rules on October 1, allowing him to capitalize on his value. Bridges, who initially secured a four-year, $90 million rookie extension with the Phoenix Suns in 2021, was traded on July 6. Now, he stands before a crossroads that could see him earning significantly more.
Mikal Bridges' Contract Possibilities
The extend-and-trade rules bring some intriguing possibilities for Bridges. They allow for a contract extension of up to four total years with a 20% raise in the first year of the new deal, followed by 5% annual raises. With two years remaining on his original contract, Bridges could sign for around $61.2 million in new money under these provisions. However, he has options to consider.
If Bridges decides to wait until the next offseason, he could potentially secure a contract worth approximately $113 million over three new years. This presents a lucrative opportunity, but it might not be the most advantageous in the long run. Starting July 1, 2025, the typical veteran extension guidelines will permit Bridges to sign a four-year extension with a 40% raise in the first new year, followed by 8% annual raises. In this scenario, he could cement a deal guaranteeing himself around $156 million over four additional years, amounting to approximately $181 million in total.
Future Projections for Bridges
Looking further ahead, if Bridges waits until the 2026 offseason, he could opt for a five-year deal that starts at 30% of the salary cap with 8% annual raises. Such a contract could potentially be worth up to $296 million, setting Bridges up for a monumental payday. This option, however, is not without risk. The fluctuating nature of the NBA and player performance dynamics could affect his bargaining power in subsequent years.
It's worth noting that should Bridges choose to sign with another team, his maximum contract would be limited to four years with 5% annual raises, a notable restriction compared to what the Suns could offer him due to retainment rights.
OG Anunoby's Significant Deal
Adding to the excitement in New York, OG Anunoby has re-signed with the Knicks for an impressive $212.5 million. This re-signing, coupled with Brunson's extension, further solidifies the franchise's strategy to develop a formidable lineup that can compete at the highest levels of the NBA. By investing heavily in proven talent, the Knicks are making clear their intentions to be a dominant force in the league for years to come.
As the Knicks continue to shape their roster, these substantial financial commitments to core players such as Brunson and Anunoby reflect a broader vision of sustained success. The evolving contract situations of players like Mikal Bridges will undoubtedly be monitored closely by both the franchise and its fanbase, as every decision could significantly impact the team's competitive edge and financial flexibility moving forward.