"It was the most money I could get" - Jalen Brunson goes "blunt" about taking $113 million pay cut on Knicks extension
Despite seemingly entering his prime, Jalen Brunson unexpectedly agreed to a discounted contract extension with the New York Knicks last month. Many thought he should have held out for more money next year. However, according to the star point guard, he made the best decision for himself, his family and his team.
On July 12, ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski reported that Brunson and the Knicks agreed to a four-year, $156.5 million contract extension. While still a massive sum, he was reportedly eligible for a five-year, $269.1 million extension next year.
Thus, Brunson left nearly $113 million on the table, opting to secure guaranteed money now rather than wait a year. Wojnarowski described the move as a "largely unprecedented financial concession," citing the first-time All-Star's aspiration to give the Knicks "roster flexibility."
On Thursday's "Roommates Show" episode, Brunson confirmed his desire to maximize his squad's title chances. He also touched on the family aspect of his contract decision.
"The process was simple. I mean, let's just be blunt and honest with it, it was the most money I could get at this point in time, and obviously, it made the most sense," Brunson said. "You always wanna make sure that you're set up for, obviously, to be well off, like your family and your extended family and all that.
"But it was kind of simple. I wanted to be here. I wanted to show that actions speak louder than just talking about stuff, and I want this team to be together for a long time. I want to win here," he continued.
Per Wojnarowski, Jalen Brunson's pay cut allowed New York to avoid the NBA salary cap's second apron. Crossing the threshold would have limited the organization's ability to make future roster moves.
The Knicks are coming off a second-place (50-32) Eastern Conference finish, coming one win short of their first conference finals appearance since 2000. They have since fortified their roster by acquiring star wing Mikal Bridges from the Brooklyn Nets this offseason.
So, Brunson's new deal should position the franchise to be among the East's premier contenders for the foreseeable future.
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Jalen Brunson could recoup lost money in next contract
While Jalen Brunson risked nearly $113 million in his latest contract extension, he could have an opportunity to recoup that lost money in four years.
Brunson's four-year, $156.5 million contract extension, which commences in the 2025-26 NBA season, includes a player option for the 2028-29 season.
According to Adrian Wojnarowski, if Brunson opts out of the final year of his deal, he will be eligible for a four-year, $323 million maximum deal in 2028. Moreover, he could wait another year for a five-year, $418 million max deal in 2029.
Brunson is set to turn 28 later this month. So, he will be turning 32 by the time he is eligible for another contract extension. It remains to be seen if he can maintain his All-NBA-level play until then and if the Knicks ultimately reward him for his loyalty.
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