The New York Knicks are walking a tightrope this offseason, weighing big swings without tipping over the foundation they’ve carefully built.
They’ve already pulled out of the Kevin Durant conversation, aware of the cost — not just financially but also to their team chemistry. He ended up landing with the Houston Rockets.
Now they’re facing a similar dilemma with Mikal Bridges, a player who could boost their title hopes or upset the current balance.
Weighing the cost of commitment
Bridges is due for a sizable payday, eligible for a $150 million extension that complicates the Knicks’ long-term financial picture.
He’s a valuable asset — efficient, available, and consistent — but handing him a max-level deal gives the front office pause.
The Knicks seem hesitant to make another high-stakes commitment so soon after parting ways with Tom Thibodeau and reshuffling leadership.
Nov 23, 2024; Salt Lake City, Utah, USA; New York Knicks guard/forward Mikal Bridges (25) dribbles the ball against Utah Jazz guard Jordan Clarkson (00) during the second half at the Delta Center. Mandatory Credit: Christopher Creveling-Imagn Images
Credit: Christopher Creveling-Imagn Images
Bridges brings reliability — but questions linger
Durability is one thing Bridges doesn’t lack — he’s played 82 games in four straight seasons, a rare feat in today’s NBA.
This past year, he averaged 17.6 points, 3.2 rebounds, and 3.7 assists while shooting 50% from the field and 35.4% from deep.
Still, his scoring came in waves, and his three-point efficiency took a dip, which may be part of the Knicks’ hesitation.
While he’s known for defense, his performance on that end wasn’t as stable as expected during stretches of the 2024 campaign.
Knicks eye roster balance over splash
The Knicks’ core is built on gritty play, smart contracts, and gradual development — not overleveraging for flashy upgrades.
Adding Bridges looked good on paper, but fitting him into a team already wrestling with identity issues might’ve added more noise.
Their pivot away from Durant showed restraint, and this feels like a similar case — don’t chase stars at the expense of chemistry.
Dec 1, 2024; New York, New York, USA; New York Knicks forward Mikal Bridges (25) celebrates after scoring in the fourth quarter against the New Orleans Pelicans at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Wendell Cruz-Imagn Images
Credit: Wendell Cruz-Imagn Images
Potential value still on the table
If they decide to pass on the extension, the Knicks could still recoup strong value by flipping Bridges in a trade package.
Teams will always covet ironman wings with defensive upside and scoring potential, especially if they think they can refine his role.
A smart move here could restock their bench or land a player who better fits the team’s timeline and strategic goals.
Front office faces a crucial inflection point
The Knicks aren’t just evaluating talent — they’re trying to define the type of team they want to be going forward.
They’ve grown from chaotic seasons into a playoff-caliber group with cohesion and toughness — a culture they won’t sacrifice lightly.
Bridges may not be the missing piece, and if that $150 million tag feels steep, New York may be wise to walk away.