In one of the most shocking moves of the 2025 NBA offseason, Tyrese Haliburton has agreed to a blockbuster 4-year deal with the New York Knicks worth a staggering $509 million, sources close to the negotiations confirmed Monday morning. The former Indiana Pacers point guard is set to become the highest-paid player in NBA history, as the Knicks position him as the new face of their franchise.
The Knicks, long in search of a dynamic floor general capable of leading them deep into the playoffs, have bet big on Haliburton’s talent, leadership, and long-term potential. At just 25 years old, Haliburton has already earned multiple All-Star nods, led the league in assists per game in 2024, and helped restore competitiveness to a Pacers squad that had been rebuilding for years.
Record-Breaking Deal
The deal, which averages over $127 million per year, shatters previous salary benchmarks and reflects the Knicks’ full commitment to building a championship contender. While specific incentives and clauses have not yet been disclosed, insiders report that the deal includes both performance bonuses and extensive marketing provisions that make Haliburton not only the cornerstone of the team but also a central figure in the Knicks’ branding and fan engagement efforts.
NBA salary cap experts were stunned by the figure, which far exceeds the expected maximum contract limits under the current Collective Bargaining Agreement. Some speculate that the contract involves advanced structuring, such as deferred payments and partnership agreements outside the traditional salary framework, possibly involving Madison Square Garden Enterprises.
A New Era in the Garden
After years of playoff frustration and instability at the guard position, the Knicks are signaling a dramatic change. Haliburton is expected to take full command of the offense, working alongside rising stars like RJ Barrett and newly re-signed big man Mitchell Robinson. With head coach Tom Thibodeau reportedly giving his full endorsement of the move, the franchise is clearly pivoting toward a more modern, fast-paced offensive identity.
Haliburton’s Statement
In a brief social media post shortly after the announcement, Haliburton wrote:
“New York — I’m ready. Let’s bring greatness back to the Garden. 💙🧡 #KnicksTape #NYC”
His agent, Rich Paul of Klutch Sports Group, called the deal “a historic moment for Tyrese and the future of NBA business.”
Fallout in Indiana
The Pacers, who offered Haliburton a supermax extension last season, were reportedly blindsided by the departure. Despite making progress as a team and building a solid young core, Indiana now faces a major rebuild without their floor general.
Team President Kevin Pritchard issued a brief statement:
“We thank Tyrese for everything he brought to our organization. We wish him success in New York. Our focus now turns to building our future with resilience and vision.”
Final Word
With this unprecedented contract, Tyrese Haliburton isn’t just changing teams — he’s changing the business of basketball. As the 2025-26 NBA season approaches, all eyes will be on Madison Square Garden to see if this mega-deal can deliver the Knicks their first title since 1973.
