Jalen Brunson caught a lot of people off guard in the 2024 offseason when he chose to sign a team-friendly extension with the New York Knicks. Brunson agreed to a four-year, $156.5 million extension, even though he could have waited a year and positioned himself for a much larger five-year, $269.1 million deal.
By signing early, he essentially left $113 million on the table, Brunson gave the Knicks more financial flexibility, allowing the front office to continue shaping a team around him that could realistically compete for a title.
That decision could pay off in a major way down the line. When the time comes for his next extension, Brunson is projected to be eligible for two massive options. In 2028, he could sign a four-year deal worth around $323 million, or in 2029, he could receive a larger five-year, $418 million contract.
Brunson understands what is ahead and has kept himself informed about the numbers. While he was willing to sacrifice in the short term, he expects to be rewarded for his loyalty.
“Obviously, we’d love for them (Knicks) to do right by me,” Brunson said. “I think anyone would. I feel like I sacrificed.”
Right now, Brunson is in the first season of his new deal, which runs through the 2028-29 season and includes a player option in the final year.
Fans react to Jalen Brunson receiving a large payday in either 2028 or 2029
Jalen Brunson potentially earning close to $80 million per year on his next contract seems like a feel-good story. After sacrificing $113 million in earlier negotiations, the idea of him finally being rewarded seems like a full-circle moment.
However, not every fan is celebrating the possibility. By the time Brunson signs either of the projected deals, he will be 32 or 33 years old. That would likely lock him in for four or five seasons, covering years when he may no longer be in his prime. For some fans, that timeline raises concerns.
There is a growing belief among fans that committing that much money for that long could hurt the Knicks down the road. If Brunson’s performance dips with age, the contract could quickly become a burden.
“He gon regret taking that pay cut lmaoo. Take the money while you’re young. Then make concessions as you age. He did it backwards and will pay the price,” @beastonthegreen said.
““We should pay our undersized PG at the start of his decline $400M”,” @ball_knower_ wrote.
“his game is not going to age well,” @dansportsman23 said.
“He’s getting his 💰 & Knicks going to be a 6th seed for the rest of his career,” @PlayoffBullets said.
“His contract extension is really Ring or Bust,” @m0gu1j0nn said.
“theyre not paying him lol,” @breakinglines_ wrote.
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