This offseason has been a blockbuster one for the New York Knicks. Just a couple of days ago, the team acquired star center Karl-Anthony Towns from the Minnesota Timberwolves. Additionally, a few months ago, the team acquired Mikal Bridges from the Brooklyn Nets. Bridges is an interesting addition. He is a fantastic two-way wing who should elevate the Knicks on both sides of the court. Additionally, he reunites with Villanova teammates Jalen Brunson and Josh Hart. This dynamic will certainly be fun to watch. However, Bridges has just two years remaining on his four-year, $90.9 million contract. And according to recent reports. the two sides will not work on a contract extension this year.
According to Bobby Marks, a former Nets GM, the expectation is that there will not be any extension talks in the near future (YouTube link). Instead, Marks suggests that Bridges will wait until next year to give “him more flexibility.”
“He does and I think the window’s going to open within the next couple of days for two years for 60 million and the indication I’ve gotten just from talking with people that there is not going to be an extension, that he will wait until next year to look at it because he’s limited as far as the six-month rule, as far as what he can extend for. Next year he can extend for four years so it just gives him more flexibility. That could certainly change by October 21st and maybe this trade does change that thinking here, this was talking to people before the Karl-Anthony Towns trade happened.”
Knicks Starter Not Expected to Sign Contract Extension
Mikal Bridges Speaks About Potential Extension
During media day on Monday, Bridges was asked about his plans regarding a possible contract extension. Despite Marks’ comments, Bridges revealed he has “no clue” about a potential extension.
Mikal Bridges was asked if he has any plans regarding his contract extension
‘I have no clue, man. I’m excited for training camp’ pic.twitter.com/2T0be9aT4M
— Adam Zagoria (@AdamZagoria) September 30, 2024
Regardless of when it happens, it seems that the 28-year-old is open to an extension to stay in New York for the long haul. With the Knicks, he should prove to become a valuable starter who should move them even closer to legitimate title contention.
Where the New York Knicks Stand With Mikal Bridges
Last season, the Knicks finished with a 50-32 record, their best campaign since the 2012-13 season. Furthermore, despite battling numerous injuries all season, the Knicks finished as the No. 2 seed in the Eastern Conference. Following the acquisitions of Bridges and Towns, the Knicks remain one of the best teams in the East. Barring any major changes, the Knicks should finish as a top-three seed in the conference once again.
