The New York Knicks made a major roster move in July 2024 by acquiring Mikal Bridges from the Brooklyn Nets, signaling their commitment to competing immediately. This move has cast uncertainty over Mikal Bridges Knicks contract future as a potential maximum deal approaches, raising questions about the team’s long-term plans.
To bring Bridges to New York, the Knicks traded away four unprotected first-round picks spanning 2025, 2027, 2029, and 2031, along with a top-four protected first-round selection via the Milwaukee Bucks in 2025. They also included an unprotected pick swap in 2028, a 2025 second-round pick, and players Bojan Bogdanovic, Mamadi Diakite, and Shake Milton. The trade reunited Bridges with his former Villanova teammates Jalen Brunson and Josh Hart. Along with Bridges, the Knicks received a 2026 second-round pick, Keita Bates-Diop, and the draft rights to Juan Pablo Vaulet.
During his first season with the Knicks, Bridges experienced a mixed performance. He struggled offensively at the start and had inconsistent offensive displays through New York’s postseason, which concluded two wins short of an NBA Finals appearance. Despite this, Bridges remains a top-tier 3-and-D wing who will turn 29 this August and has demonstrated improved offensive skills beyond his role as a shooter and floor spacer.
The Knicks are entering a 2025-26 season in the Eastern Conference that has been weakened by injuries to key stars. Players such as Jayson Tatum of the Boston Celtics, Tyrese Haliburton of the Indiana Pacers, and Damian Lillard of the Milwaukee Bucks might miss the entire season due to Achilles injuries suffered in the recent playoffs. Bridges is expected to be a crucial part of the Knicks’ efforts should they attempt another championship run.
Bridges is confirmed to be with the Knicks for the upcoming season and will be an important contributor if the team reaches the Finals. Nonetheless, his contract situation beyond next year remains unclear. Grant Hughes of Bleacher Report expressed skepticism about Bridges re-signing this offseason despite being eligible for an extension.
Mikal Bridges has the option to extend his contract this summer for up to four years and $156 million, but the riches that could await a year from now (and the sheer number of additional suitors who could drive up Bridges’ price), will be too tantalizing to resist,
—Grant Hughes, Bleacher Report
In 2026, Bridges could earn $296 million on a new max deal. … Loyalty and sacrifice are great, but the NBA is still a business — even if you’ve got Wildcat ties. Bridges is going to treat it like one.
—Grant Hughes, Bleacher Report
Uncertainty Surrounds Bridges’ Long-Term Role Despite Key Contributions
Mikal Bridges has proven his value as a versatile forward capable of strong defense and offensive creation, yet the Knicks’ heavy investment in draft capital and players to secure him amplifies the stakes for his future commitment. His ability to fit alongside stars like Jalen Brunson and Josh Hart, along with the team’s championship ambitions, positions him as a linchpin for New York’s immediate prospects.
However, the looming possibility of Bridges seeking a maximum contract after the next season threatens the Knicks’ salary cap flexibility. With Bridges eligible this offseason to accept a four-year extension worth up to $156 million, the debate is whether the team can meet his potential market value or consider other options through trades or renegotiations.
Trade Speculation Increases as Knicks Weigh Offseason Moves
As the Knicks look forward to the offseason, trade discussions are expected to heat up around multiple players, including Bridges. His burgeoning value and eligibility for a max deal attract numerous suitors who could incentivize a trade, especially if the Knicks aim to preserve financial flexibility or address other roster needs.
The team’s aggressive acquisition strategy, demonstrated by parting with multiple future picks and role players, underscores the tension between building for the present and maintaining sustainable long-term growth. Bridges’ contract future remains a focal point of this balance, with decisions likely to be influenced by his performance in the upcoming season and the evolving market landscape.