(Photo by Paras Griffin/Getty Images for HBO)
The New York Knicks are making a serious case to be one of the favorites for the 2025 NBA championship after the moves they made in the offseason.
First, the Knicks made the blockbuster move of the summer when they sent a bevy of draft picks to acquire Mikal Bridges from the Brooklyn Nets.
Next, they re-signed OG Anunonby to a five-year deal to lock up their wing tandem and give them arguably the best defense on paper.
However, New York shocked the league when they managed to get Jalen Brunson to a sign a four-year extension that was well below market value.
Due to the new CBA and the second apron, front offices are hampered when it comes to roster building but Brunson’s discounted deal allows them some flexibility in the future.
Charles Barkley, like everyone else, was surprised but offered his point of view on Brunson’s decision via ESPN.
“What he did for the Knicks I think has shocked everybody… I think he realized, hey for me to make a few extra million dollars and we’re not gonna be competitive, I’m not gonna do that,” Barkley said.
Charles Barkley on Jalen Brunson extending:
“What he did for the Knicks I think has shocked everybody… I think he realized, hey for me to make a few extra million dollars and we’re not gonna be competitive, I’m not gonna do that.”
(via @espn) pic.twitter.com/YAhAFGOkYR
— KnicksMuse (@KnicksMuse) July 13, 2024
It’s a measured take that accurately explains Brunson’s deal and it’s a sign that the star guard is serious about wanting to field contender-level teams for the foreseeable future.
In this day and age, players will typically look to sign for the most money they can but Brunson is the rare player that’s willing to take less to benefit the team.
However, now it’s on the Knicks to ensure that the roster is the best it can possibly be to compete for a title.
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