The New York Knicks are currently enjoying a season in which they are the third-best team in the Eastern Conference with a 35-20 record at the NBA All-Star break. While things seem to be turning in their direction this season, they also have one big looming decision they will need to start to decide on.
That decision revolves around the future of Jalen Brunson. While Brunson still has a few years left on his current deal, the Knicks still need to start thinking about his future. It is something Brunson is already thinking about, and he sent a clear message to the Knicks about it already.
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Brunson, currently in the first season of his four-year, $156.5 million extension signed in 2024, reflected on his decision in a recent interview with Vanity Fair. He acknowledged that by signing then, he potentially left significant money on the table.
Had he waited another year, Brunson could have pursued a five-year max extension worth up to $269 million. Instead, his decision provided the Knicks with crucial salary cap flexibility to build a stronger roster around him.
“A lot of people say I sacrificed for the team. One hundred percent I sacrificed for the team,” Brunson stated. “But most importantly, I made sure my family and I are taken care of. … Obviously we’d love for them to do right by me. I think anyone would. I feel like I sacrificed.”
When discussing his upcoming contract, Brunson made sure the Knicks know they need to already start planning a substantial offer when he made the comment of saying, “Obviously, I’d love for the Knicks to do right by me.”
Jalen Brunson on his next contract: “Obviously, I’d love for the Knicks to do right by me.” (via Vanity Fair, h/t @SbondyNBA)
Brunson took a $113M pay cut for New York in 2024. pic.twitter.com/L3X5PXcS3O
— Legion Hoops (@LegionHoops) February 18, 2026
While Brunson is content with the security his current contract provides, his sights are already set on his next potential deal. By 2028, when he will be a 10-year veteran, Brunson will be eligible to sign the largest possible contract in the NBA. Projections suggest this could be a five-year deal exceeding $417 million, averaging over $83 million per season.
Currently, Brunson is earning an average salary of just over $39 million, placing him outside the top 30 highest-paid players in the league and third on the Knicks’ roster. This current contract structure underscores his willingness to prioritize team success, but he clearly anticipates a different approach in future negotiations.
Brunson’s leadership has been instrumental in transforming the Knicks into a consistent playoff contender. The team has made the postseason for three consecutive years under his guidance and is on track for a fourth. His performance this season, averaging 27.0 points, 6.1 assists, and 3.3 rebounds, has solidified his status as an All-Star and an All-NBA caliber player.
With three years remaining on his current deal, including a player option for the 2028-29 season, the Knicks have time to address his future. However, Jalen Brunson’s clear message indicates that he expects the franchise to recognize his value and loyalty when the time comes for his next contract.
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