Jalen Brunson leads the Knicks to an eighth consecutive victory against the Nuggets
Feb 5, 2026
Nicolas Flamecourt
Jalen Brunson hopes the Knicks will reward him after his financial sacrifice
The New York Knicks point guard, who gave up $113 million in his 2024 extension, wants the franchise to "do right by him" in his next contract in 2028.
Feb 11, 2026; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; New York Knicks guard Jalen Brunson (11) drives against the Philadelphia 76ers during the first half at Xfinity Mobile Arena. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-Imagn Images
Photo Credit : © Bill Streicher-Imagn Images
Jalen Brunson isn’t hiding his expectations for the future. In an interview with Vanity Fair, the New York Knicks star point guard made it clear that he hopes to be rewarded by his franchise in his next contract, after making significant financial sacrifices.
Jalen BRUNSON
Position(s): Point Guard
Height: 188 cm
Age: 29 years old (08/31/1996)
Nationality:
Stats 2025-2026 / NBA
PTS
27
#11
REB
3.3
#239
AST
6.1
#30
A $113 million sacrifice to help the Knicks
In July 2024, Brunson surprised the basketball world by signing a four-year extension worth $156.5 million, when he could have waited an additional year to secure a five-year, $270 million max contract. This rare gesture allowed the Knicks to avoid the second luxury tax threshold and maintain financial flexibility to strengthen the roster.
« A lot of people say I made a sacrifice for the team… and that’s true. 100%. I sacrificed myself for my team, » the 29-year-old confided. « But most importantly, I also made sure that my family and I are secure. »
This decision fit into a clear logic for Brunson: « We’re clearly here to win as soon as possible. Our front office has been very involved and they’re basically telling us that it’s time to win. So we have to do everything we can to win right now. »
Hope for a $417.8 million contract in 2028
Now, the three-time All-Star expects something in return from the Knicks. In 2028, when he can activate his opt-out clause, Brunson will be eligible for a five-year max contract estimated at $417.8 million. « Obviously, I’d love for them to do right by me, » he stated. « I think anyone would want that. And I feel like I’ve made sacrifices. »
Jalen Brunson on his next contract: « Obviously, I’d love for the Knicks to do right by me. » (via Vanity Fair, h/t @SbondyNBA)
Brunson took a $113M pay cut for New York in 2024. pic.twitter.com/L3X5PXcS3O
— Legion Hoops (@LegionHoops) February 18, 2026
Brunson’s bet seems to be paying off so far. This season, he’s averaging 27 points on 47% shooting, 6.1 assists and 3.3 rebounds per game. The Knicks sit third in the Eastern Conference with a record of 35 wins and 20 losses, positioning themselves as serious title contenders.
Since his arrival in 2022, Brunson has transformed a franchise that was languishing in mediocrity into a competitive team. The Knicks have reached the playoffs three consecutive years under his leadership, the first time since the early 2000s. For a player who gave up more than $100 million out of loyalty, the question of reciprocity for this loyalty will inevitably arise in four years.
With a background in sports management, Nicolas Flamecourt covers NBA news with a particular passion for the North American league, which he has been following for several years. He also covers the NCAA, including news and scouting of future prospects, and regularly conducts interviews with French players as well as players competing in Europe.
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