Knicks Reportedly Monitoring Giannis Trade Rumors, Delaying Bridges Contract Extension

Mikal Bridges is seeking a contract extension from the New York Knicks this offseason but faces potential delays. The Knicks are monitoring Giannis Antetokounmpo's trade situation with the Milwaukee Bucks, as extending Bridges would prevent them from trading him for six months. According to SNY's Ian Begley, the team may postpone Bridges' extension until Antetokounmpo's status is resolved, noting that all NBA teams are closely watching Milwaukee's developments.

Antetokounmpo's future had been a major offseason uncertainty, with ESPN's Shams Charania reporting in May that he remained undecided about staying in Milwaukee. However, recent indicators suggest he will likely remain with the Bucks. ESPN's Brian Windhorst stated teams now believe Antetokounmpo doesn't want a trade, while the player himself publicly expressed love for Milwaukee and a probable continuation with the team. Bucks president Peter Feigin reinforced this stability, describing their relationship as positive and "business as usual."

The Knicks' cautious approach stems from Antetokounmpo's potential availability, as acquiring him would instantly elevate New York to championship favorite status. Even if the move doesn't materialize, the Knicks remain well-positioned for contention. Bridges, who averaged 17.6 points as a key contributor alongside Jalen Brunson and Karl-Anthony Towns last season, is entering the final year of his four-year, $90.9 million contract and is considered deserving of an extension despite the current holdup.