Jalen Brunson seems willing to make some concessions to help the New York Knicks become legitimate championship contenders.
Fred Katz of The Athletic reported that Brunson is considering accepting a maximum contract extension from the New York Knicks this offseason, which would mean a four-year, $156.5 million deal.
That's a lot of money, but he'll be eligible to sign a five-year, $269.1 million contract after the 2024-25 season, meaning he could earn an additional $113 million guaranteed and an average annual salary of $53.8 million, rather than the $39.1 million he would receive if he signs an extension this offseason.
Katz reported that Brunson is considering the deal because it would allow the Knicks to avoid the No. 2 apron and improve their chances of building a championship contender team.
“That's one reason he's considering a cheaper extension, league sources said, that could help the Knicks avoid a second apron in the near future and improve the franchise's chances of winning its first championship since 1973,” Katz wrote.
Katz went on to report that Brunson values the security of signing a contract now and has no desire to play anywhere other than New York.
“League sources say the primary reason a contract extension is still in negotiation is safety,” Katz wrote. “Sources close to Brunson say he has no interest in playing for another team. He calls the Knicks 'family,' and sometimes literally. He chose New York because of his deep ties to team president Leon Rose, head coach Tom Thibodeau and his father, who serves as an assistant there.”
The 27-year-old had a stellar 2023-24 season, averaging 28.7 points, 6.7 assists and 3.6 rebounds in 77 games as he helped lead New York to a 50-32 record and the No. 2 seed in the Eastern Conference.
New York was eliminated in the second round, but made some big splashes by re-signing OG Anunoby and acquiring Mikal Bridges from the Brooklyn Nets, trades that should help the Knicks stay atop the Eastern Conference and become serious championship contenders.
Pursuing maximum value for Brunson would require New York to reduce resources elsewhere on the team, potentially hurting their championship chances, and it could potentially benefit them down the line if Brunson accepts this year's offer, as he will become a free agent two years early.
The offer won't be officially sent until Friday, so he still has time to consider his options.
