DEAL ACCEPTED: Knicks Lock Down Jalen Brunson – 4-Year, $156.5 Million Extension
NEW YORK, July 12, 2024 — All-Star point guard Jalen Brunson has officially agreed to a four-year contract extension with the New York Knicks, worth $156.5 million, that begins with the 2025–26 season and includes a player option for its fourth year .
What He Could’ve Had (But Didn’t):
If Brunson had waited until next offseason, he would have been eligible for a five-year max extension valued at approximately $269 million .
By opting in early, he foregoes around $113 million in guaranteed money .
Sacrifice for the Greater Good
Brunson’s decision is widely viewed as a deliberate, team-first move—a rare gesture on par with stars like Tom Brady, Derek Jeter, and Patrick Mahomes—aimed at giving the Knicks more salary cap space and flexibility under the NBA’s “second apron” tax rules .
Knicks President Leon Rose praised Brunson’s selflessness:
> “…willingness to sacrifice for this organization, his teammates and everyone in the Knicks family.” .
What It Means for the Team
Caps financial damage: Keeps the Knicks below the second apron, avoiding heavy taxes and roster penalties .
Roster stability: Freeing up space lets the Knicks retain and build around core pieces like OG Anunoby, Mikal Bridges, Donte DiVincenzo, Mitchell Robinson,
and Miles McBride .
Future upside: The final-year player option gives Brunson the ability to test free agency in 2028 – when he could command a four-year $323 million extension or even a five-year $418 million deal .
Brunson’s Numbers Speak Volumes
Coming off a career-best 2023–24 season, Brunson averaged 28.7 PPG, poured in 211 three-pointers, earned All-Star and All-NBA Second Team honors, and finished fifth in MVP voti Length & Value: 4 years, $156.5 million, with a player option in Year 4.
The Price Tag: Nearly $113 million less than the 5-year max.
Why It’s Smart: Ensures the Knicks keep building around Brunson without salary cap penalties.
What’s Next: By 2028, Brunson can cash in on his prime with a max deal, after helping solidify the Knicks’ core.
🗽 Jalen Brunson’s move isn’t just a contract—it’s a declaration: he believes this Knicks team is title-ready. And he’s rolling the dice on that vision.
