In a significant move, Jalen Brunson has re-signed with the New York Knicks, solidifying his future with the team through a lucrative four-year, $156 million contract extension. This deal not only secures Brunson’s place in the organization but also underscores the Knicks' commitment to constructing a formidable roster around their dynamic point guard.
Brunson's Impact on the Knicks
Brunson’s extension is viewed as a strategic move by the Knicks' front office, signaling their dedication to building a competitive team centered around his skills. The 27-year-old has emerged as a pivotal figure in the Knicks' lineup, and his retention was deemed crucial for the franchise’s aspirations of contending in the highly competitive Eastern Conference.
Meanwhile, Mikal Bridges' situation offers an intriguing subplot in the NBA's complex landscape of contract extensions and player movements. Bridges, who became eligible for an extension under the NBA's extend-and-trade rules on October 1, has several potential financial paths ahead of him.
Mikal Bridges' Contract Scenarios
Bridges inked a four-year, $90 million rookie extension with the Phoenix Suns back in 2021. However, his trade on July 6 has opened up a realm of possibilities through the league's extend-and-trade rules. These regulations permit Bridges to sign for up to four total years with a 20% raise in the first year of the new deal and subsequent 5% annual raises. Given that he has two years remaining on his original contract, Bridges could potentially earn around $61.2 million in new money under this framework.
Choosing to wait until the next offseason could yield an even more lucrative deal for Bridges. By then, he might secure approximately $113 million over three new years. Even more promising for Bridges are the options available starting July 1, 2025. At this point, he could take advantage of the typical veteran extension guidelines, which allow for a 40% raise in the first new year, followed by 8% annual raises.
Under these terms, Bridges stands to gain four additional years on his contract rather than just two, potentially ensuring around $156 million over those four years and up to $181 million in total value. In the 2026 offseason, the stakes could be raised even higher, with Bridges having the potential to sign a five-year deal starting at 30% of the salary cap, with 8% annual increases. This scenario might earn him up to a staggering $296 million.
However, if Bridges were to sign with another team, his maximum potential contract would be constrained to four years, featuring 5% annual raises. This limitation could significantly impact the total financial package available to him outside of his current team’s contract structure.
OG Anunoby’s Eye-Catching Deal
In another notable transaction, OG Anunoby has also made a significant financial commitment by re-signing in New York for an impressive $212.5 million. This move further demonstrates New York's aggressive strategy in retaining top-tier talent and building a roster capable of competing at the highest levels.
These financial maneuvers around Brunson, Bridges, and Anunoby highlight the intricate balancing act NBA teams perform to manage talent and salary cap considerations. For the Knicks and other franchises, these extensions and potential deals represent more than just numbers on a contract—they are strategic investments in the team's future success.
As the NBA continues to evolve with its multifaceted contract rules and market dynamics, the outcomes of these extensions will undoubtedly shape the competitive landscape of the league in the coming years.