Jalen Brunson made a rare financial sacrifice in todays NBA, and now hes hoping the New York Knicks remember it when the time comes.The All-NBA guard revealed he expects the franchise to do right by me in the future after signing a team-friendly contract extension in 2024 that left a massive amount of money on the table.Brunson chose to lock in a four-year, $156.5 million extension rather than wait one more season to pursue a five-year, $269 million maximum deal. The decision gave New York critical salary cap flexibility as it continues building around its franchise cornerstone.Obviously wed love for them to do right by me, Brunson said according to ESPN reporting. I think anyone would. I feel like I sacrificed.That sacrifice was not insignificant. By signing early, Brunson effectively passed on $113 million in guaranteed money. Beginning in 2028, he will be eligible for a new five-year contract projected at $417.8 million, though he would be entering that deal at age 32, a point when smaller guards often begin to decline.Brunson explained that risk played a major role in his decision.Ive seen players wait and then get hurt, and then theyre at the mercy of the organization, he said. A lot of people say I sacrificed for the team. 100 percent I sacrificed for the team. But most importantly, I made sure my family and I are taken care of.The Knicks guard has been intentional about every major career decision. In 2022, he left the Dallas Mavericks despite the chance to continue playing alongside Luka Doncic, opting instead to bet on himself in New York.Related Article: Giannis Antetokounmpo Reaffirms Commitment to BucksAt the time of free agency, I was thinking about all the situations, Brunson said. Could I be comfortable and stay in a role next to a future Hall of Famer or create my own path? I was never afraid to fail. When youre reaching for your dreams, youve got to take leaps, even if its uncomfortable.READ MORE: Jeanie Buss Opens Up on Luka Doncic Era, Plus LeBron James
