Brunson agreed to a four-year, $156.5 million contract extension with the Knicks earlier this week. Although it’s a substantial amount, it’s approximately $113 million less than he could have earned by becoming a free agent next offseason.
Brunson chose not to wait for a larger extension to help the New York team steer clear of the second apron of the salary cap. Hitting the second apron would greatly restrict the team’s ability to sign new players through free agency and trades.
ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski detailed on X (formerly Twitter) the differences between the contract Brunson signed and the one he could have received, as well as how his decision affects the Knicks’ salary cap situation
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As Wojnarowski notes, Brunson could recover some of the money he deferred in the future. He will be eligible for a new four-year extension worth $323 million in 2028 or a five-year, $418 million deal if he waits to become a free agent in 2029.
Brunson’s choice, uncommon in the NBA, underscores his commitment and loyalty to the Knicks. He has strong connections to the franchise, with his father, Rick Brunson, serving as an assistant coach and team president Leon Rose being his former agent.
Brunson is coming off a standout season, averaging 28.7 points and 6.7 assists while making his first All-Star appearance.
