New York Knicks guard Jalen Brunson has agreed to a four-year, $156.5 million contract extension, per ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski.
In a largely unprecedented financial concession to give roster flexibility to a contender, New York Knicks star Jalen Brunson has agreed on a four-year, $156.5 million extension, his agent Sam Rose of CAA tells ESPN — $113M less guaranteed than he’s eligible to receive in one… pic.twitter.com/DDJvz7TUlr
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) July 12, 2024
A first-time All-Star in 2023-24, the 27-year-old took an astounding pay cut in order to help the Knicks maintain financial flexibility.
Knicks Agree To Eye-Opening Contract Extension With Jalen Brunson
Had Brunson waited until next offseason to sign his extension, he would’ve been eligible for $113 million more in guaranteed salary. Notably, Brunson’s agent —Sam Rose of CAA Sports—is the son of Knicks president Leon Rose. Brunson’s dad (Rick Brunson) is a Knicks assistant coach and a former client of the elder Rose.
These deep-seated relationships are presumed to be among the primary factors in Brunson’s decision to agree to the deal.
Here’s how it looks pic.twitter.com/AKsU33fmby
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) July 12, 2024
With that being said, Brunson has a fourth-year player option on his contract that would allow him “to recoup the rest of the $113 (million).” If Brunson declines his player option, he’ll be eligible to sign a four-year, $323 million extension in 2028. Should he bypass that option, he could still re-sign with the Knicks for five years and $418 million in 2029.
However, Brunson will be 32 years old in 2028. Consequently, there’s really no guarantee he’ll ever be offered that contract.
His play is largely predicated on his craftiness and shooting touch, so his game could age gracefully. For comparison, Dallas Mavericks guard Kyrie Irving is 32 years old and at the top of his game. Nonetheless, Brunson wouldn’t be the first or last player who declined as they crept past 30 years old. Considering his injury history, he could be one of the next ones.
The Last Word On Jalen Brunson
Regardless of what happens when it’s time for Brunson’s next contract, they at least have him locked in for the remainder of his prime.
Emerging as their franchise leader last season, his talent level and heroics will help keep them in title contention. As of now, the Boston Celtics and Philadelphia 76ers are the favorites to come out of the East. However, if the Knicks manage to make another major roster addition, they’ll make it a conversation.
