The New York Knicks kicked off their preseason in impressive fashion, giving fans a glimpse of their retooled roster as they clinched a decisive win over the Charlotte Hornets. After an off-season filled with strategic trades, the Knicks have set high expectations, with fans eagerly awaiting the impact of Mikal Bridges and Karl-Anthony Towns. Yet, as the new season unfolds, owner James Dolan and the front office find themselves facing a critical decision regarding Bridges’ contract, potentially shaping the team’s future.
The Knicks surprised the NBA world when they traded for Bridges, reuniting him with his former Villanova teammates. The deal came at a steep price—sending Bojan Bogdanovic and five first-round picks to the Nets—but the Knicks felt confident in the payoff. The addition of Bridges brings stability, and his durability offers a stark contrast to the injury troubles the team battled last season. Bridges, a versatile defender and steady scorer, fills the gap left by the traded Julius Randle, whose inconsistent health had previously hampered the Knicks’ frontcourt.
Bridges, however, now presents a financial puzzle for Dolan. Although the 28-year-old is eligible for a two-year extension worth $61.3 million through October 21, he could earn significantly more—up to $157 million on a four-year deal—by waiting until next season. Bridges’ comments on Media Day only fueled speculation, as he played it coy, saying, “I have no clue, man… I’m just excited for training camp.” For the Knicks, the decision may hinge on Bridges’ performance and fit within the new-look roster.
With Karl-Anthony Towns stepping in as a strong offensive anchor, the Knicks aim to reinforce their core and finally break the so-called injury curse that has plagued them in recent years. Towns, a formidable presence at 7 feet, shores up the center position and adds offensive depth that complements Bridges’ defensive skills. Both trades signal a calculated approach to establish a lineup that can endure the grind of the season and make a playoff push. And for Dolan, extending Bridges could mean solidifying the roster’s future and doubling down on a team with renewed potential.
As the Knicks gear up for a promising season, fans are watching closely to see if Dolan will lock in Bridges or wait for the outcome of the season before making his move. Either way, the Knicks have built a roster capable of taking the East by storm, provided they can stay healthy and consistent on the court.
