The New York Knicks have finalized a significant four-year, $150 million contract extension with Mikal Bridges, as confirmed by agents Sam Goldfeder and Jordan Gertler. This agreement includes a player option for the 2029-30 season and is complemented by a trade kicker. Prior to this extension, some NBA executives speculated that Bridges might enter the upcoming season on an expiring contract, aiming to leverage his free agency next summer for a deal close to $200 million.

Bridges was originally acquired by the Knicks from the Brooklyn Nets on June 25, 2024, in exchange for a substantial collection of draft picks. This trade reunified him with former Villanova teammates Jalen Brunson and Josh Hart. Notably, Donte DiVincenzo was traded three months later to the Minnesota Timberwolves alongside Julius Randle in a deal for Karl-Anthony Towns. At the time of his acquisition, Bridges had two seasons remaining on a four-year, $90.9 million contract signed with the Phoenix Suns in October 2021. He had been traded to the Nets as part of the return for Kevin Durant in February 2023.

The Knicks' decision to secure Bridges for a significant haul of picks indicates a long-term strategic plan. With three-quarters of what has been referred to as the 'Nova Knicks' alongside Towns, New York has established a formidable core for the foreseeable future. During the 2023-24 season, Bridges emerged as a top option for the Nets, recording averages of 19.6 points on 43.6 percent shooting, which included a 37.2 percent success rate from beyond the arc, along with 4.5 rebounds, 3.6 assists, and 1.0 steals per game. Bridges is known for his defensive prowess, particularly as he fits seamlessly into the gritty style that defines the Knicks. In 2024-25, he continued to excel, averaging 17.6 points while achieving 50.0 percent shooting, contributing significantly to New York's journey to the Eastern Conference Finals, marking the franchise's first appearance in this round since 2000. His durability is notable, as Bridges has not missed a game in his seven-year career, averaging 35.8 minutes of play per game over the last three seasons, with a remarkable 37.0 minutes in 2024-25. However, he has acknowledged his inconsistencies, stating, 'I got to play better. I’ve been inconsistent.' Despite facing challenges, Bridges played an integral role in the Knicks' playoff successes against the Detroit Pistons and Boston Celtics with crucial performances, although he faced criticism for his performance in a six-game loss to the Indiana Pacers in the Eastern Conference Finals. Nevertheless, Bridges' contribution was vital to a Knicks team that could be regarded as one of the best since the 1990s, and his long-term position with the franchise positions the Knicks as potential championship contenders for the first time in decades.