That is unbelievably generous, potentially leaving $100M+ for the Knicks to improve the roster. From the article:
While there is an inherent risk of injury and unforeseen complications that come with Brunson's decision to push back his most lucrative NBA paydays, his priority remains to maximize the prime of his career with the franchise's most talented and deepest roster since the 1990s.
The repercussions of Brunson choosing the four-year, $156.5 million max deal over the five-year, $269.1 million deal in 2025 are massive for the Knicks' ability to keep this team together and continue making roster moves to close the gap on a championship.
Brunson's study of championship organizations and franchise stars --
Patrick Mahomes'
Kansas City Chiefs, the Tom Brady
New England Patriots and the Derek Jeter
New York Yankees -- gave him a blueprint for MVP-level players who structured contracts to give their teams the best chances at sustainable title runs.