New York Knicks point guard Jalen Brunson has one of the most team-friendly contracts in the NBA, earning $26 million per year while many of his peers make at least $40 million annually. While a contract extension would significantly raise Brunson’s salary, he is considering another way to benefit the team.
It seemed inevitable that Brunson would join the Knicks in free agency before the summer of 2022. Returning to the Dallas Mavericks was not an option, and the Knicks positioned themselves well to acquire him.
In a Knicks uniform, Brunson has emerged as an All-Star player. Last season, the 27-year-old point guard was named to the All-NBA Second Team, alongside players earning $50 million per year.
Brunson has a player option for 2025, which means he could soon sign a lucrative new contract. If he waits, Brunson could receive contract offers in excess of $50 million per year in NBA free agency next year.
However, Fred Katz of The Athletic reports that Brunson is considering whether to sign a maximum extension with the Knicks this summer. Such a deal would be worth $156.5 million over four years ($39.125 million per year).
If Brunson waits until next summer, he would be eligible for a five-year contract worth $269.1 million, averaging $53.82 million annually. By signing now, he would be leaving $113 million on the table.
While LeBron James received praise for taking $3 million less on his contract to benefit the Los Angeles Lakers, Brunson would be making a sacrifice of over $100 million to help the Knicks. Keeping payroll under control would also allow New York to make further improvements to the roster in the future.
Another reason motivating Brunson, according to Katz, is his love for New York and his lack of interest in playing anywhere else. At a time when most players prioritize maximizing their earnings, Brunson appears willing to forgo $113 million to contribute to the Knicks’ quest for a championship.
