The New York Knicks are intensifying discussions around the Mikal Bridges Knicks contract extension, as his current deal concludes after the 2025-26 season with a value close to $24.9 million. During NBA 2K26 Summer League, a Knicks executive addressed concerns about the extension, emphasizing the organization’s long-term plan for Bridges.
Keith Smith of Spotrac gathered insights at the event, where the executive expressed the team’s commitment:
“We hope to get something done,”
the Knicks representative told Smith.
“When you make the commitment to trade for a player like we did with Mikal, you do it with the intention of them being on the team for a long time.”
High Price Paid to Acquire Bridges Highlights Need for Extension
The stakes surrounding Bridges’ contract are high, as the Knicks did not acquire him cheaply. New York parted with significant draft capital, including four unprotected first-round picks in 2025, 2027, 2029, and 2031, all sent to the Brooklyn Nets as part of the deal. This substantial investment underlines the team’s urgency in securing Bridges long-term.
Additional assets in the trade included a 2025 first-round pick from the Milwaukee Bucks and an unprotected pick swap in 2028. The magnitude of draft capital exchanged substantially outweighed the players involved, underlining how critical the Knicks view Bridges to their roster.
Tensions Arise Amid Delay to Finalize Long-Term Deal
While the Knicks maintain a strong connection with Giannis Antetokounmpo during the offseason, some speculate this relationship may have contributed to the delay in finalizing Bridges’ extension. The Knicks face pressure not to lose momentum on this front, as Bridges is regarded as an integral piece of their future.
The executive’s remarks reflect a clear message: the Knicks remain anxious to solidify their commitment, given the heavy price paid and Bridges’ rising importance. The team‘s next steps will be closely watched as fans and commentators weigh the implications of the delay.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. How do Mikal Bridges stay healthy?
A. He says his ability to stay fit comes from the Suns’ strength program together with his personal recovery habits. Last season, Bridges adjusted his diet, choosing only fish and plant-based foods. This shift briefly changed his usual order at Chipotle, but he’s returned to his old favorites now.