For months, whispers around the league suggested the Knicks were delaying a Mikal Bridges extension, just in case Giannis Antetokounmpo became available. From the mainstream media to opposing fanbases, talk of the Greek Freak's supposed displeasure with the team and his alleged desire to leave town dominated headlines. That dream is dead.
The NBA's most persistent conspiracy theory just died in a New York boardroom, and the Knicks' decision to lock up Mikal Bridges might have saved Milwaukee's championship window. By signing Bridges to a four-year, $150M extension, New York essentially announced to the league that Giannis Antetokounmpo isn't available – and never was.