The New York Knicks have secured a four-year contract extension with Mikal Bridges worth $150 million, as confirmed by agents Sam Goldfeder and Jordan Gertler. This agreement includes a player option for the 2029-30 season and features a trade kicker. Prior to this decision, some NBA executives speculated that Bridges might opt to play the upcoming season under an expiring contract, aiming for a potential near $200 million deal on the open market next summer.

Bridges joined the Knicks from the Brooklyn Nets in a notable trade that unfolded on June 25, 2024, during which New York exchanged a significant number of draft picks. This move allowed Bridges to reunite with former Villanova teammates Jalen Brunson, Josh Hart, and Donte DiVincenzo, although DiVincenzo was subsequently traded alongside Julius Randle to the Minnesota Timberwolves for Karl-Anthony Towns. At the time of the trade, Bridges still had two seasons and $48.2 million remaining on a contract he originally signed with the Phoenix Suns in October 2021, before being traded to the Nets as part of the Kevin Durant deal in February 2023.

With this extension, Bridges, now 28 years old, solidifies his role within the Knicks' long-term strategy, demonstrating the franchise’s commitment to building a competitive team. Known for his impressive performance, Bridges was the leading scorer for the Nets in the 2023-24 season, averaging 19.6 points, while boasting a shooting percentage of 43.6%, including 37.2% from beyond the arc. He also contributed 4.5 rebounds, 3.6 assists, and 1.0 steals per game. Over the course of the 2024-25 season, he continued to excel, averaging 17.6 points with a remarkable shooting accuracy of 50%. His consistent presence helped guide New York to an Eastern Conference Finals appearance, marking the franchise’s first since 2000. Moreover, Bridges has built a reputation as the NBA's iron man by not missing a single game throughout his seven-year career and has averaged 35.8 minutes per game over the last three seasons. Despite occasional struggles with consistency, Bridges has emerged as a pivotal player for the Knicks, playing critical roles in their playoff victories against the Detroit Pistons and Boston Celtics. Nonetheless, his contributions in the Eastern Conference Finals against the Indiana Pacers fell short of expectations. As Bridges continues to develop within this formidable roster, his long-term presence in New York highlights the franchise's aspirations to compete for championships in the coming years.