According to a recent report from Bobby Marks of ESPN, Brunson’s decision to take $12 million less could have an important impact on Mikal Bridges’ future with the team. He noted that because of Brunson's contract, it gives the Knicks the room to sign Bridges to a four-year, $156.1 million extension.

The New York Knicks have some big decisions to make as the 2025-26 season approaches, and one could mean parting with Mikal Bridges.

Should the Knicks elect to not extend Bridges, he will become an unrestricted free agent after next season. The Knicks gave up a lot to get Bridges in the first place, sending the Brooklyn Nets a whopping five first-round picks along with several players in exchange for the two-way wing.