It is a new era for the New York Knicks, a franchise that has long yearned for a return to prominence. Over the past two seasons, they have experienced a resurgence that echoes the glory days of the '90s, and central to this revival is Jalen Brunson, a player who has not only starred on the court but has shaped the team's culture with remarkable selflessness and leadership.
Jalen Brunson’s arrival in New York came with an uncharacteristic gesture in the modern NBA— a commitment to team success over personal gain. Brunson accepted a substantial discount on his potential salary, leaving approximately $113 million on the table to give the Knicks the flexibility to build a competitive roster. This financial sacrifice has paid dividends, allowing the team to strengthen its squad and achieve success not seen in over a decade.
The Knicks have reached the Eastern Conference semifinals in both seasons since Brunson’s signing, a feat unaccomplished since 2013. Moreover, they’ve won playoff series in consecutive seasons, a throwback to their golden era from 1992 to 2000. This resurgence was celebrated in a ceremonial event at Madison Square Garden, where cherished names from the past, including Hall of Famer Patrick Ewing and actor Ben Stiller, gathered to acknowledge Brunson's impact.
Ewing, a towering figure in the Knicks' storied past, narrated a touching video tribute that encapsulated Brunson's journey. The video even showcased a poignant image of a young Brunson with Ewing, symbolizing the passage of the torch from one Knicks generation to another. Brunson’s father, Rick Brunson, who also played for the Knicks, was a part of his formative years, embedding the Knicks' ethos into his upbringing.
Brunson’s prowess on the court has been nothing short of stellar. Leading last season’s team with an impressive average of 28.7 points per game, he finished fourth in the NBA scoring charts and earned his first All-Star selection. His postseason heroics ranked him alongside legends, as he became the first player since Michael Jordan to record four consecutive 40-point games in the playoffs. These performances helped him finish fifth in the voting for the NBA’s MVP award. His season, however, concluded on a somber note as he broke his left hand during the second half of their Game 7 loss to the Indiana Pacers in the second round.
Despite these highs and lows, Brunson remains resolute and forward-focused. Reflecting on his career choices, he said, "I think about every decision that I make and I'm completely comfortable with what I've done." His sentiment of prioritizing team over individual acclaim is clear: "Winning trumps everything that I do individually."
Brunson’s influence extends beyond his prolific scoring. His leadership has been cemented with the captaincy of the team. "People just want to be around you, Jalen. You're a born leader," said Patrick Ewing, underscoring the intangibles that Brunson brings to the squad.
As part of their continued effort to contend, the Knicks secured OG Anunoby to a five-year deal worth more than $210 million during the offseason. They are also considering an extension for Julius Randle, a move that underscores their intent to build a robust team around Brunson.
Off the court, Brunson finds inspiration in sports icons like Derek Jeter and Tom Brady, known for their commitment to team-first attitudes. He echoes this ethos: "People can say they want to do a lot of things, but it's all about their actions. This is just me wanting to do my part to help this team try and get [a championship]." His dedication to the Knicks' cause remains unwavering: "This is literally just the beginning," he asserts.
Brunson’s narrative is not just about statistics and salary figures; it is about rekindling hope for a franchise and its fan base. "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," he states with a resolve that resonates deeply with the long-suffering Knicks supporters.
In Jalen Brunson, the Knicks have found more than just a star player; they have found a leader committed to forging a winning path. As the team looks ahead, bolstered by strategic signings and the unyielding spirit of their captain, the echoes of past glories seem to be harmonizing with the promise of what’s to come.