Knicks Forward Mikal Bridges Takes Slight Pay Cut to Secure Long-Term Deal
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New York Knicks swingman Mikal Bridges finalized a four-year, $150 million extension this summer, choosing security over the roughly $156 million he was eligible to receive, according to Newsday. The 28-year-old, who could have hit free agency in 2026, told reporters on media day that he never weighed other destinations.
“I love it here,” Bridges said, citing the fan base, team culture and front-office support. He acknowledged last season was challenging but insisted external criticism mirrored his own expectations. “Everything they want is what I want,” he added.
Brunson Trims Weight for Faster Pace
Jalen Brunson arrived at training camp noticeably lighter, shedding a few pounds to prepare for new head coach Mike Brown’s up-tempo system, The New York Post reported. The All-Star guard declined to share his exact weight but noted he feels “more toned” and in the best shape possible for an 82-game schedule.
Anunoby Familiar With Brown
Forward OG Anunoby, who previously turned down Brown’s attempt to recruit him to Nigeria’s 2021 Olympic roster due to COVID-19 concerns, welcomed the coach’s hiring. “I was excited when I found out he was the coach,” Anunoby said, adding that their first conversation covered both basketball and personal topics.
Brown Sees Early Progress
Brown, replacing Tom Thibodeau, is implementing the quick-decision offense he ran in Sacramento. After Friday’s practice, he praised the roster’s attention to detail during its first full scrimmage. “It’ll be even more different when we go against Philly in Abu Dhabi,” Brown noted, while emphasizing that significant work remains before the regular season.
Source: Hoops Rumors
