The New York Knicks are strategically laying the groundwork for a championship team through smart financial moves. Mikal Bridges is now being considered after they successfully extended Jalen Brunson’s deal at an excellent value. Reports hint at a potential trade where the Brooklyn Nets would send Mikal to the Knicks in exchange for five first-round draft picks. With this deal, the Knicks have shown their commitment to rebuilding for long-term success.

Another Knicks player ready to take a pay cut

New York Knicks ( Image Credit: Getty Images)

According to NBA insider Evan Sidery, Mikal Bridges will follow Jalen Brunson’s lead in negotiating a pay cut for his next deal. He posted, “With Jalen Brunson’s record-setting bargain extension complete, the strong expectation is Mikal Bridges will also take a discount on his upcoming new long-term deal with the Knicks.” 

Since both college teammates agree to deals with team-friendly terms, he expressed, “The Villanova duo will be setting up New York to be championship contenders for years to come.” 

Mikal Bridges signed a four-year, $90.9 million contract with the Phoenix Suns in 2022 and was later traded to the Nets during the 2022-23 NBA season. He can earn $48.2 million over the next two years under his current contract. However, Mikal may extend his pay cut deal with NIcks to give the team greater salary cap flexibility soon. This change aims to strengthen the team’s roster so they can fight harder for the championship.

New York Knicks $113 Million Bargain with Jalen Brunson Shakes NBA World

The New York Knicks have sent shockwaves through the NBA with news of Jalen Brunson‘s contract extension. This rising point guard reportedly agreed to a four-year deal worth $156.5 million – $113 million less than the maximum salary he could have commanded on the open market.


With this choice, New York Knicks is in a far stronger financial position to put together a championship-caliber squad to play with him. His sacrifice keeps the Knicks financially stable, possibly keeping them within budget for the next several years.