Mikal Bridges officially agreed on August 1, 2025 to a four‑year, $150 million contract extension with the New York Knicks, complete with a player option for the 2029‑30 season and a trade kicker clause.

While Bridges was reportedly eligible for up to $156  million, yet he accepted a slightly reduced contract in exchange for salary‑cap flexibility for the Knicks. This move allows New York to remain under the second apron limit, preserving financial room to improve the roster and/or avoid the second apron penalties.

Why This Matters

Bridges has been a pillar of dependability and defense. He played every single game last season (raising his consecutive-games streak even further), and averaged 17.6 points, 3.2 rebounds, and 3.7 assists. In the playoffs, he contributed 15.6 points per game and 1.7 steals while helping the Knicks reach the Eastern Conference Finals for the first time since 2000.

His reputation as a lockdown perimeter defender, once a serious Defensive Player of the Year contender, is exactly what New York valued in the trade package that brought him over last summer. And his clutch defensive plays against the Celtics underscored why retaining him was critical.

Concerns and Critiques

Still, not every Knicks fan is celebrating the deal. Some worry that $37.5 million per year is too much for a player who has never been an All-Star and isn’t a consistent primary scoring option. Critics point out that locking up Bridges at this price could prevent the team from adding another superstar later on and/or re-signing Karl Anthony Towns.

Others are concerned that the Knicks are overpaying based on potential chemistry rather than elite talent. While Bridges fits well alongside Jalen Brunson, Karl-Anthony Towns, and OG Anunoby, his offensive ceiling might not justify a near-max contract in the eyes of some fans who expected the team to aim even higher.

Overall Impression

Bridges plays a cerebral two-way game and brings invaluable consistency to a Knicks team that’s built on defense and toughness. While the deal might not scream “bargain,” it’s a strategic win for both sides: the Knicks retain a key contributor, and Bridges gets paid while still giving the team breathing room financially.

Grade: B-

The Mikal Bridges extension is a smart, solid move. He’s durable, elite defensively, and fits the Knicks’ culture and system. But at nearly $38 million per year, it’s a steep price for a player who hasn’t made an All-Star team or consistently carried an offense. The player option and trade kicker limit flexibility slightly, and some fans may feel the Knicks are paying near-star money without getting star production. Still, the chemistry and continuity matter, especially after a deep playoff run. Overall, it’s a solid, not good nor bad, deal.