Jalen Brunson has signed a four-year contract extension with the New York Knicks worth approximately $156.5 million, foregoing a potential $269 million deal had he waited for free agency. His decision has given the Knicks a financial boost as they strive for continued success.
Brunson, who has been pivotal in the Knicks’ resurgence over the past two seasons, believes in the partnership he has built with the franchise. “This is literally just the beginning,” he stated at a ceremonial event at Madison Square Garden, attended by former Knicks stars like Hall of Famer Patrick Ewing and actor Ben Stiller.
Ewing praised Brunson, saying, “People just want to be around you, Jalen. You’re a born leader,” highlighting the qualities that attracted the Knicks to him when they signed him in the summer of 2022. Coach Tom Thibodeau, who has connections to Brunson’s family through his father, Rick Brunson, observed how Brunson’s work ethic and leadership drew other players to him.
Despite the financial implications, Brunson is comfortable with his decision. He stated, “I think about every decision that I make and I’m completely comfortable with what I’ve done. Obviously I’m well off, myself and my family, we’re obviously well off, so that’s first and foremost. But I want to win. I want to win here.”
Brunson’s extension allows the Knicks to navigate the complexities of the NBA salary cap, particularly with the new collective bargaining agreement in place. With the Knicks also pursuing other key players, including OG Anunoby, who signed a five-year deal worth over $210 million, Brunson’s sacrifice is seen as a strategic move to maintain a competitive roster.
“Winning trumps everything that I do individually,” Brunson emphasized, reflecting the team’s focus on championship aspirations. The Knicks have made significant strides since Brunson’s arrival, reaching the Eastern Conference semifinals in both seasons and winning playoff series consecutively for the first time since 2000.
Last season, Brunson led the Knicks with an average of 28.7 points per game, ranking fourth in the NBA. He was selected for his first All-Star team and finished fifth in MVP voting, further solidifying his impact on the court. During the playoffs, he made history by becoming the first player since Michael Jordan to score 40 or more points in four straight postseason games.
However, Brunson expressed disappointment about his performance in the playoffs, particularly regarding his injury during the Knicks’ Game 7 loss to the Indiana Pacers. He remains committed to leading the team to greater heights, drawing inspiration from athletes like Derek Jeter and Tom Brady, who are known for their team-first mentalities.
“People can say they want to do a lot of things, but it’s all about their actions. Obviously this is no guarantee that we win a championship, right? This is just me wanting to do my part to help this team try and get one. So it’s all about the journey and I’m happy to be a part of it,” Brunson concluded.
