After years of longing, New York Knicks fans finally witnessed their team make significant progress in the NBA playoffs, thanks largely to the transformative signing of Jalen Brunson. The Knicks’ spirited Game 3 victory over the Indiana Pacers in the Eastern Conference Finals highlighted Brunson’s impact, reigniting discussions on his crucial role in the team’s resurgence.
Brunson’s confident drives to the rim defy expectations, showcasing toughness against dominant rim protectors, and drawing praise from basketball experts and fans alike.
Stan Van Gundy Highlights Brunson’s Role in Knicks’ Revival
Stan Van Gundy, a former NBA coach, emphasized the significance of Brunson’s influence on the Knicks’ current success. He compared the impact Brunson has on New York to the shift that occurred when Shaquille O’Neal joined the Los Angeles Lakers, noting the leadership and clutch performances that Brunson consistently delivers. Van Gundy underscored that Brunson’s presence uplifts the entire team, especially during critical moments in games.
Echoing this sentiment, Stefan Bondy of SNY shared Van Gundy’s assessment of Brunson’s signing, capturing the former coach’s high regard:
Leon’s done a tremendous job here putting this roster together. You think back, for the value of the contract, has there been – ever – a better free agent signing than Jalen Brunson… Shaq to LA? Well, okay. But that’s a max contract. You think Brunson and I mean, a lot of people, even when he got what he got, thought he was overpaid. And he wasn’t getting a max.
—Stan Van Gundy, Former NBA Coach
Van Gundy drew attention to the transformative nature of these signings, pointing out how the Lakers, with Jerry West orchestrating O’Neal’s addition in 1996, quickly became a dominant force alongside Kobe Bryant. This historical context helped frame the magnitude of Brunson’s signing for the Knicks.
How Leon Rose’s Vision Elevated the Knicks Through Brunson’s Signing
Team president Leon Rose’s decision to sign Brunson in the summer of 2022 was pivotal following the Dallas Mavericks’ rejection of Brunson’s contract demands. Brunson had sought a five-year, $87 million deal but was offered only four years at $55.5 million. In contrast, the Knicks secured his services with a lucrative four-year, $104 million agreement, positioning him as the franchise’s key player moving forward.
This acquisition spurred immediate improvement; prior to Brunson’s arrival, the Knicks ended the 2021-22 season ranked 11th. Since then, they’ve become consistent playoff contenders, advancing deep into postseason rounds, including reaching the conference finals.
Brunson’s On-Court Clutch Performances Amplify Knicks’ Playoff Run
Jalen Brunson’s outstanding playoff performances underscore why he was named this season’s NBA Clutch Player of the Year. Averaging 30.1 points and 6.9 assists in the postseason, he regularly elevates his game when it matters most, especially in the fourth quarter. Brunson’s partnership with star teammate Karl-Anthony Towns has been instrumental in driving the Knicks’ recent success, drawing parallels to the dynamic duo of Shaquille O’Neal and Kobe Bryant in years past.
Van Gundy summed up Brunson’s rise, stressing his dedication and recognition within the league:
And now he’s — I think everybody recognizes — one of the best players in the league.
—Stan Van Gundy, Former NBA Coach
Looking Ahead: Crucial Game 4’s Role in Defining Knicks’ Momentum
The Knicks face a pivotal Game 4 against the Indiana Pacers on Tuesday, May 27, at 8 p.m. ET. A win would even the Eastern Conference Finals series at two games apiece and reinforce Brunson’s status as a transformative signing for Knicks success. As the series progresses, the eyes of analysts, fans, and basketball insiders remain fixed on Brunson’s leadership and the team’s quest to advance further into the postseason.