Rick Pitino, the head coach of St. John’s Red Storm, recently asserted that the era of traditional point guards is over, stirring controversy around how players like Jalen Brunson are classified. Pitino claimed that the classic point guard role no longer exists, suggesting a shift in basketball’s evolution.
During a recent discussion, Pitino expressed skepticism about Brunson’s label as a pure point guard by calling him a “combo scoring guard,” emphasizing Brunson’s focus on scoring rather than distributing the ball. This perspective comes amid Brunson’s growing influence as the New York Knicks’ leading guard.
Defining Jalen Brunson’s Role on the Knicks
Jalen Brunson, who shone during his college career at Villanova before spending time with the Dallas Mavericks, has become a key figure for the Knicks since joining in 2022. Despite his solid playmaking skills, Pitino insists Brunson prioritizes scoring above all else.
“There are no point guards anymore. I mean, if you find him, you’ll probably describe him as a guy who can’t shoot,”
Pitino remarked, downplaying the relevance of traditional point guard skills.
When asked specifically about Brunson, Pitino said,
“He’s a combo scoring guard. I don’t think he’s looking for any assists. I think he’s looking to score. And thank God, he is.”
These comments highlight a new appraisal of what it means to lead a team and handle the ball in modern NBA play.
Wider Implications for NBA Guard Play
Pitino expanded on his views by pointing to the lack of true point guards not only on the Knicks but across championship-caliber teams like the Lakers, Celtics, and Thunder.
“There are no more point guards. Chris Paul’s probably the last one,”
Pitino said, indicating a broader transformation in guard roles toward more versatile scoring threats who facilitate less traditionally.
He further described the current game as one where
“everybody [is] handling the basketball, five out, and just create good movement,”
reflecting the emphasis on spacing and scoring ability rather than strict positional duties.
Patrick Ewing Offers Encouraging Words to Brunson on His Captaincy
Marking the one-year anniversary of Jalen Brunson’s appointment as captain of the New York Knicks, team legend Patrick Ewing shared a heartfelt message recognizing Brunson’s growth and significance.
Ewing reflected on Brunson’s journey, stating,
“Hey, Jalen, it’s Patrick. If someone told me the young boy running around the garden would grow up to be the captain of the New York Knicks, you know what? I’d probably believe it. And like Mike Green said, you were born to play basketball. I watched how you studied the game and put in the work to perfect your craft. But I’ll go a step further, Jalen. You were born to play basketball for the Knicks. Just be Jalen. It’s been a long journey to get here, but you’re just getting started.”
Brunson’s leadership is viewed as the start of a new chapter in Knicks basketball, signaling more than just individual accomplishments but a team identity evolving around his all-around contributions.
Significance of Brunson’s Role in the Knicks’ Future
Jalen Brunson’s transition from a dependable scorer to the undisputed leader of the New York Knicks represents a shift in the team’s dynamics and strategy. While Pitino’s comments question the traditional point guard label, Brunson’s impact remains undeniable in leading the Knicks’ resurgence.
This debate over positional roles reflects larger trends in the NBA, where players often transcend classic definitions to fit faster-paced, scoring-driven styles of play. Brunson’s blend of scoring and leadership might be a blueprint for the future, positioning the Knicks for sustained success as the league continues to evolve.