The New York Knicks have solidified their relationship with Mikal Bridges by agreeing to a four-year, $150 million contract extension, marking a significant step in their long-term team strategy. This deal, announced in 2024, follows a trade with the Brooklyn Nets and reflects the Knicks’ commitment to keeping Bridges at the heart of their roster.

Details and Context Behind the Contract Extension

Mikal Bridges, who arrived in Manhattan via a notable trade that sent multiple first-round draft picks to the Brooklyn Nets, rewarded the Knicks by participating in all 82 games during his first season and averaging 17.6 points per game. According to ESPN insider Shams Charania, the $150 million extension is less than what Bridges might have earned if he reached unrestricted free agency in 2026, but it secures his future with the Knicks well in advance.

It’s much less than he was set to make, potentially, as a free agent in 2026,

Charania said on NBA Today.

Before he could get to free agency, the sides could lock in this deal. That now secures his future there.

Bridges’ Role in the Knicks’ Long-Term Starting Lineup

This extension places Bridges among the Knicks’ core group, including OG Anunoby, Jalen Brunson, Josh Hart, and Karl-Anthony Towns, all expected to remain with the team through 2028. This continuity contrasts with challenges faced by other Eastern Conference teams, many of which have had to manage injuries or make difficult cuts for salary reasons.

The biggest thing here is that Mikal Bridges, Jalen Brunson, OG Anunoby, the last couple of offseason have taken discounts less than the max deal that allows the Knicks to stay under the second apron, continue to build a roster, and have flexibility in doing so,

Charania explained.

For [Bridges] to lock in [at] $150 million, he is now off the board, as well as Jalen Brunson.

Trade Restrictions and What Comes Next for Bridges

Although Bridges has committed to the Knicks on paper, his status in New York will remain fully guaranteed only after the 2026 trade deadline. Charania noted that the new contract includes a six-month period during which Bridges cannot be traded, though this restriction ends just before the trade moratorium, as clarified by NBA Today host Malika Andrews.

Implications for the Knicks’ Future Roster and Strategy

With Bridges now secured, the Knicks have locked in key contributors while maintaining salary cap flexibility, a luxury not all teams in the conference can afford. The team’s ability to construct a consistent starting five, while keeping valuable players on contracts below maximum levels, positions them well for sustained competitiveness. The extension underscores the Knicks’ intention to build around Bridges and the rest of their core as they aim for long-term success.