Overview

• Bridges signed a four-year, $150 million deal, roughly $6 million under his eligible maximum, after his first full season in New York.
• The extension reportedly includes a $6 million trade kicker that would be triggered if the Knicks deal him.
• At media day, Bridges said he chose the smaller number because he loves playing in New York and values the organization and teammates.
• Staying below the second apron preserves in-season trade options and bench upgrades that would be restricted under harsher tax rules.
• The move follows Brunson’s below-market extension last summer, with low-cost additions such as Jordan Clarkson and Guerschon Yabusele reinforcing a culture of sacrifice that coach Mike Brown has emphasized.