Knicks' Mikal Bridges contract decision expected to play impact on longtime fan favorite

The New York Knicks are in a good position right now, and if things go as planned over the next year, there's a chance they could win a championship. 

Ultimately, the Knicks still have things to work on, but they’re in a better spot than they were a few years ago. 

However, there will be some more difficult decisions the Knicks have to make, as they've already faced plenty over the past few months. 

When searching for the next one, Bobby Marks of ESPN noted that the Knicks giving Mikal Bridges a four-year, $156.1 million extension could be bad news for Mitchell Robinson. 

MORE: Knicks may miss out on former All-Star guard

"While the Knicks won't exceed the second apron this year, that could change in 2026-27 if they want to keep their top seven players under contract," Marks wrote. "New York is $52 million below the second apron next season, a by-product of Jalen Brunson taking $12 million less in salary. That discount gives New York the room to sign Mikal Bridges to a four-year, $156.1 million extension.

"However, a new contract for Bridges that starts at $34.8 million could squeeze out Mitchell Robinson. Like Bridges, Robinson is eligible to sign up to a four-year extension and is a free agent if a new contract is not reached by June 30."

Robinson has been very good during his time with the Knicks, but plenty of it has been filled with injuries, complaints, and more. 

Despite the injuries and some comments about his role, however, he’s done what he needed to do and has been an essential piece for New York. 

That was proven during the playoffs this season, so it's something to factor in here.

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