Knicks' Jalen Brunson sends strong message about next contract

Guard Jalen Brunson isn't planning to give the New York Knicks another discount when negotiating his next contract. 

Brunson spoke with Vanity Fair's Tom Kludt for a feature story published Wednesday. In the article, the guard made it clear that he expects a payday when he becomes extension-eligible in 2028.

Jalen Brunson discusses new contract

"Obviously, we'd love for [the Knicks] to do right by me," Brunson said. "I think anyone would. I feel like I sacrificed." 

Brunson signed a four-year deal worth $156.5M with the Knicks in July 2024. He could've taken $113M more but wanted to give New York enough apron space to build a contender. Thus far, that has worked. 

The Knicks went 51-31 last season and reached the Eastern Conference Finals for the first time since the 1999-00 season. New York lost the series against the Indiana Pacers in six games. But it's in a position to make a deep playoff run again this season. 

Entering the All-Star Break, the Knicks (35-20) are third in the Eastern Conference behind the Boston Celtics (35-19) and the Detroit Pistons (40-13). New York may be entering its groove after winning eight of its last 10 games. 

Brunson, who made his third appearance in the All-Star Game this past Sunday, has been the team's driving force this season. Through 50 games, he ranks 10th in the NBA in scoring (27 points per game). 

As of Tuesday night, FanDuel Sportsbook gives the Knicks the fourth-best title odds (+1300), behind the San Antonio Spurs (+1200), Denver Nuggets (+550) and Oklahoma City Thunder (+130). 

The Knicks haven't won a title since the 1972-73 season. If Brunson delivers it, he would further endear himself to the fan base, which would then beg the franchise to pay him in 2028. 

The Knicks should begin preparing to do that sooner rather than later. Spotrac estimates that New York will have $115.41M in second-apron space in 2028. The team should clear even more room for a Brunson extension. If he stays on his current trajectory, who knows how much he'll command when discussing his next deal?