The New York Knicks have witnessed an extraordinary resurgence, marked by achievements unseen in the past quarter-century. At the heart of this revival is Jalen Brunson, who has not only elevated his game to exceptional heights but has also displayed an admirable commitment to the team’s future.
Jalen Brunson’s impact on the Knicks cannot be overstated. The talented point guard chose the Knicks in a gesture of goodwill, passing up the potential for a more financially lucrative career elsewhere. By giving the team a $113 million discount in potential salary, Brunson ensured the Knicks had the financial flexibility to create a winning roster around him. This selfless move was complemented by his recent signing of a four-year contract extension worth approximately $156.5 million, despite being eligible for a five-year, $269 million deal had he opted for free agency.
“I think about every decision that I make and I'm completely comfortable with what I've done,” said Brunson, reflecting on his choice to prioritize team success over individual financial gain. “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 Leading Figure
Brunson’s leadership has not gone unnoticed. The Knicks, recognizing his undeniable influence on and off the court, named him team captain. Since his signing, the Knicks have reached the Eastern Conference semifinals in back-to-back seasons, a feat not accomplished since 2013. Moreover, they have won playoff series consecutively, harking back to their golden era from 1992 to 2000.
Recently, a ceremonial event at Madison Square Garden underscored Brunson’s monumental impact. The celebration saw the attendance of former Knicks stars, including Hall of Famer Patrick Ewing, who narrated a poignant video at the event. The video included a touching picture of a young Brunson with Ewing, emphasizing the deep roots Brunson has with the franchise.
“People just want to be around you, Jalen. You're a born leader,” remarked Ewing, encapsulating the sentiment of many Knicks fans and players alike.
Brunson's On-Court Brilliance
On the court, Brunson’s performance has been nothing short of stellar. Leading last season’s team with 28.7 points per game, he ranked fourth in the NBA and secured his first All-Star selection. His remarkable season saw him finish fifth in voting for the NBA’s MVP award. Brunson also etched his name alongside legends when he became the first player since Michael Jordan to record four straight postseason games of 40 or more points.
Brunson's season, however, came to a heartbreaking end when he broke his left hand during the second half of the Knicks' Game 7 loss to the Indiana Pacers in the second round. Despite this setback, Brunson’s resolve and commitment to the Knicks remain unwavering.
Looking to the Future
The Knicks are continuing to look for ways to build around their star. This offseason, the team signed OG Anunoby to a five-year deal worth over $210 million, a move that signals their ambition to complement Brunson's talents with strong reinforcements. There are also considerations for extending Julius Randle's contract, which could further solidify the team’s core.
Brunson has often reflected on the importance of a team-first attitude, drawing inspiration from sports legends like Derek Jeter and Tom Brady. “Winning trumps everything that I do individually,” he affirmed. “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.”
As the Knicks march forward, Brunson’s passion and dedication stand as a beacon for the team's aspirations. "This is literally just the beginning," Brunson aptly stated, hinting at the promising journey ahead. While the road to an NBA championship is fraught with challenges, with Brunson at the helm, the Knicks are poised to aim for heights the franchise hasn’t seen in decades.