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[Saba Sports News] Just when it seemed New York couldn’t adore Jalen Brunson more, he might be giving them another reason.
Steve Popper of Newsday reported that Brunson, eligible for an extension this offseason, may offer the Knicks a hometown discount. Instead of waiting until next summer to sign a five-year, $270 million max extension, Brunson is reportedly willing to sign a four-year, $156 million extension this summer. This would average about $39 million per year, well below his max potential of $54 million per year, and avoid delaying the team’s plans.
Brunson, 27, is currently under contract for $25 million next season, with a $25 million player option for 2025-26. Signing the four-year extension this offseason would eliminate the 2025-26 option, securing Brunson’s future with the Knicks for five more years.
In his second year with the Knicks, Brunson excelled, averaging 28.7 points and 6.7 assists per game, establishing himself as a true NBA star. His connection to New York is strong, being a native of nearby New Brunswick, N.J., and with his father Rick serving as a Knicks assistant coach.
If Brunson accepts a team-friendly extension, it would greatly benefit the Knicks, giving them flexibility to re-sign impending free agents OG Anunoby and Isaiah Hartenstein this summer and potentially avoiding the need to trade another player who has been the subject of recent rumors.