In the summer of 2024, Jalen Brunson made headlines with a bold move, taking a significant pay cut to stay with the New York Knicks. The guard inked a four-year, $156 million extension, leaving over $113 million on the table. By choosing this path, Brunson demonstrated a commitment to helping the Knicks maintain financial flexibility.
Brunson, a three-time All-Star, could have waited until after the 2024-25 season to sign a more lucrative five-year, $269 million deal. However, his dedication to the team's future was clear.
As he looks ahead, Brunson hopes the Knicks will "do right" by him when his next contract comes up. He expressed a desire to remain with the team for the long haul, saying, “I would love to be here for the rest of my career.
I love this place.”
Currently, Brunson ranks as the Knicks’ third-highest-paid player, following Karl-Anthony Towns and OG Anunoby. Since joining New York in 2022, after four years with the Dallas Mavericks, Brunson has become an integral part of the team’s success.
This season, Brunson is delivering impressive stats, averaging 26.8 points, 3.4 rebounds, and 6.2 assists per game. His shooting percentages are noteworthy too, hitting 47.1% from the field, 37.1% from three-point range, and 84.7% from the free-throw line. Thanks in part to his contributions, the Knicks are sitting comfortably in third place in the Eastern Conference.
The Knicks' journey to the conference finals last season marked their first appearance since 2000, though they fell to the Indiana Pacers in six games. This offseason saw a coaching change, with Mike Brown stepping in to replace Tom Thibodeau.
As the 2026 playoffs approach, all eyes will be on Brunson and the Knicks to see just how far they can go. With Brunson leading the charge, the excitement is palpable among fans and analysts alike.