The New York Knicks executed one of the biggest trades of this offseason by acquiring Mikal Bridges. Many consider the trade to be one of the most expensive trade packages in NBA history. The Knicks willingly paid extra to the Brooklyn Nets, marking only the sixth time in franchise history that they have done so. Many fans still have some concerns about the trade as the Knicks have many players who operate in the same position on the court.
Recently former NBA star Kendrick Perkins talked about the Mikal Bridges trade. He also analyzed the potential role Bridges could fulfill for the team. Perkins believes that Bridges could play the same role that Jrue Holiday plays for the Boston Celtics.
He could be what Jrue Holiday is for the Boston Celtics, that’s how elite this young man is on both ends of the floor. We saw it with the Phoenix Suns when Devin Booker and CP3 made their run to the NBA Finals.
Kendrick Perkins said via NBA on ESPN
Holiday played a pivotal role in the Celtics’ championship run last season. However, he is primarily known for his defense in the NBA. On the other hand, Bridges supposedly excels in both offense and defense. The Knicks will certainly need more productivity from their new signing. In the Brooklyn Nets’ last season, Bridges averaged 19.6 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 3.6 assists while being the team’s top option.
The Knicks are set to enter the next season as one of the strongest teams in the league. By adding Bridges to their roster, the Knicks have positioned themselves as championship contenders and will pose a significant threat in the highly improved Eastern Conference.
Jalen Brunson took a pay cut for the trade of Mikal Bridges
Last season, NBA fans saw the rise of Jalen Brunson as one of the top guards in the league. Throughout the season Brunson played exceptionally well and managed to show his offensive excellence on the court. Even though the Knicks fell short in the playoffs, Brunson showed the potential of a future superstar.
After the season, the Knicks signed Jalen Brunson to a four-year, $156.5 million extension. Later reports indicated that Brunson would have been eligible for a five-year, $269.1 million extension next year.
Brunson decided to leave behind a significant amount of money to help improve the team and acquire Mikal Bridges. Many fans and analysts were shocked to see Brunson forsaking such a large sum of money. Numerous NBA legends even praised Brunson for his loyalty to the Knicks.
Brunson’s pay cut even helped the Knicks to be below the second apron. Crossing the second apron would have limited the Knicks to make roster changes in the future. It is evident that Brunson wants the team to improve and is ready to make sacrifices for it as well.
