NBA Rumors: Jalen Brunson Considering $157M Contract to Help Knicks’ Salary Cap

Jalen Brunson appears willing to make some concessions in order to help the New York Knicks become a legit contender.

Fred Katz of The Athletic reported that Brunson is considering accepting a max extension from the New York Knicks this offseason, which would mean he would sign for four-years, $156.5 million.

While this is a substantial amount of money, he would be eligible for a five-year, $269.1 million deal following the 2024-25 season. That would mean he could potentially earn an additional $113 million guaranteed and an averaged annual value of $53.8 million as opposed to the $39.1 million he would receive if he signed the extension this offseason.

Katz reported that Brunson is considering the deal as it would allow the Knicks to avoid the second apron and have a better chance at building a contender.

“A league source says it’s one reason he’s considering taking the cheaper extension, which could help the Knicks avoid the second apron in the immediate future, giving the franchise a better chance to win its first championship since 1973,” Katz wrote.

Katz continued by reporting that Brunson does value the security of signing the deal now, and does not want to play somewhere else besides New York.

“The first reason the extension remains on the table, according to a league source, is security,” Katz wrote. “Brunson has no interest in playing elsewhere, according to sources close to him. He has referred to the Knicks as “family” — in some cases, literally. He chose New York because of his deep ties with team president Leon Rose, head coach Tom Thibodeau and his father being an assistant.”

The 27-year-old had an outstanding 2023-24 season, averaging 28.7 points, 6.7 assists and 3.6 rebounds in 77 games. He helped lead New York to a 50-32 record and the No. 2 seed in the Eastern Conference.

While New York would fall in the second round, it made a major splash by re-signing OG Anunoby and acquiring Mikal Bridges from the Brooklyn Nets. These deals should keep the Knicks towards the top of the Eastern Conference and make them a true title contender.

If Brunson were to go for the max value, New York may have to put less resources towards other areas of the team and that could hurt contention chances. Additionally, Brunson would hit free agency two years earlier if he took this year’s offer, which could allow him to cash in later down the road.

He has some more time to consider his options, as the offer cannot be officially sent until Friday.