Mikal Bridges’ contract situation with the New York Knicks has become a major point of interest as the franchise looks to solidify its core for the future. Bridges, acquired in a blockbuster trade with the Brooklyn Nets, is currently under contract for two more seasons.

While the Knicks front office reportedly attempted to secure a contract extension with him before the start of the 2024–25 season, negotiations did not lead to an agreement.

This development wasn’t entirely surprising given the evolving dynamics of NBA contracts and player leverage. Bridges, a versatile wing known for his elite perimeter defense and improving offensive skill set, has positioned himself as a key contributor for the Knicks.

His value on both ends of the floor makes him one of the most sought-after two-way players in the league. Given the rising salary cap and his elevated role, Bridges appears to be strategically waiting for a more advantageous negotiating window, likely during the 2025 offseason.

This could potentially land him a four-year extension projected to be worth around \$157 million. His current contract still offers the Knicks flexibility.

The team doesn’t face immediate pressure to sign him to an extension, which allows them to evaluate how well he fits into their long-term plans alongside stars like Jalen Brunson and Julius Randle. Bridges has shown flashes of high-level scoring and remains an anchor on defense, contributing to the team’s strong playoff push.

Bridges’ decision to delay contract talks could also be a calculated move to maximize his market value. With the new media rights deal and expected cap increases, the financial landscape of the NBA is shifting rapidly.

A year from now, Bridges could find himself eligible for a significantly higher extension if his performance continues on its current trajectory.

Additionally, waiting gives him more control over his future, as he can evaluate how the Knicks evolve as a contender and whether staying aligns with his career goals.

From the Knicks’ perspective, retaining Bridges is likely a priority. The front office has made it clear they want continuity and stability, and Bridges fits both culturally and strategically.

His demeanor, work ethic, and defensive tenacity resonate with head coach Tom Thibodeau’s philosophy. However, they also must remain financially prudent, especially with other core players like RJ Barrett and Mitchell Robinson on the books, and Brunson recently signing a team-friendly extension.

There is also the question of what the market would bear for a player like Bridges if he were to become a free agent. Several teams in need of a high-level two-way wing would be eager to throw max or near-max offers at him, especially with the league increasingly favoring players of his archetype.

That potential market pressure could influence the Knicks to be more aggressive in their future negotiations. In the meantime, Bridges continues to focus on his on-court contributions.

He has embraced a larger offensive role with the Knicks, often tasked with guarding the opposing team’s best perimeter player while also carrying scoring responsibilities. His presence has allowed the team to be more versatile defensively and to match up more effectively with elite teams in the East like the Celtics and Bucks.

What remains to be seen is how the Knicks handle the broader implications of Bridges’ contract timing. If they wait too long and he elevates his performance, the price tag could rise significantly.

Alternatively, an early agreement could secure him at a relative bargain if both sides are willing to compromise. The front office must balance the desire for financial flexibility with the risk of potentially losing a foundational player.

Another factor to consider is Bridges’ health and durability. One of his trademarks has been his ability to stay on the floor. He’s played nearly every game since entering the league, and that kind of availability is invaluable over an 82-game season.

That durability boosts his contract value and gives the Knicks more confidence in investing long-term. In summary, Mikal Bridges’ extension talks represent a significant storyline in the Knicks’ broader team-building strategy.

With two years left on his deal, the team has time—but so does Bridges, who appears to be using it wisely. His decision to wait could lead to a bigger payday and allow for better alignment with the team’s direction.

For Knicks fans and NBA watchers alike, how this situation unfolds could have major implications for the Eastern Conference power balance in the years to come.