The New York Knicks have experienced a resurgence that fans have not witnessed in the past quarter-century. At the core of this revival is Jalen Brunson, a player whose impact on the team has been nothing short of transformative.
The Brunson Effect
Jalen Brunson's commitment to the Knicks goes beyond just his performance on the court. By agreeing to a contract that leaves the team with flexibility, Brunson has provided a $113 million discount in potential salary. This financial sacrifice has enabled the Knicks to build a competitive roster around him, showcasing his team-first mentality.
His dedication has earned him the role of team captain, a title that reflects his influence both in the locker room and on the hardwood. Patrick Ewing, the Hall of Famer and former Knick, summed it up best when he said, "People just want to be around you, Jalen. You're a born leader."
Playoff Success
Since Brunson's arrival, the Knicks have made it to the Eastern Conference semifinals in consecutive seasons, a feat not achieved since 2013. Moreover, they've secured back-to-back playoff series wins for the first time since their golden era from 1992 to 2000. These accomplishments were celebrated at a ceremonial event at Madison Square Garden, attended by former stars, including Patrick Ewing and actor Ben Stiller.
In a nostalgic moment, Ewing narrated a video that featured a young Brunson with the Knicks great. This highlights the deep connection Brunson has with the organization, a bond that dates back to his childhood when his father, Rick Brunson, played for the team.
On-Court Excellence
Brunson's on-court performance has been exceptional. Last season, he led the team with an average of 28.7 points per game, the fourth-highest in the NBA. His stellar play earned him his first All-Star selection, and he finished fifth in voting for the NBA’s MVP award.
Remarkably, Brunson became the first player since Michael Jordan to record four straight postseason games with 40 or more points. Unfortunately, his season came to a premature end when he broke his left hand during the second half of their Game 7 loss to the Indiana Pacers in the second round.
Looking Ahead
Despite this setback, the Knicks have bolstered their roster by signing OG Anunoby to a five-year deal worth over $210 million. The team is also considering an extension for Julius Randle, indicating their commitment to maintaining a competitive squad.
Brunson recently extended his contract for four years at approximately $156.5 million. By opting not to become a free agent, which could have made him eligible for a five-year, $269 million contract, Brunson once again demonstrated his prioritization of team success over individual gain. "I think about every decision that I make and I'm completely comfortable with what I've done," Brunson explained. "Winning trumps everything that I do individually."
Drawing inspiration from icons like Derek Jeter and Tom Brady, Brunson has embraced a team-first attitude. He is clear about his goals, stating, "Obviously I'm well off, myself and my family, we're obviously well off, so that's first and foremost. But I want to win. I want to win here."
A Promising Future
With Brunson at the helm, the future looks promising for the Knicks. His actions speak louder than words, as he notes, "People can say they want to do a lot of things, but it's all about their actions. Obviously, this is no guarantee that we win a championship, right? This is just me wanting to do my part to help this team try and get one. So it's all about the journey and I'm happy to be a part of it."
The journey is indeed just beginning for the New York Knicks, and with Jalen Brunson's leadership, determination, and skill, the team is poised for sustained success. "This is literally just the beginning," Brunson asserts, encapsulating the optimism that now surrounds the franchise.