The New York Knicks have ushered in a new chapter in their storied history by naming Jalen Brunson as the team captain for the 2024-25 season. This milestone makes Brunson the 36th captain in the franchise's lineage.
At just 27 years old, Brunson has already compiled an impressive resume. He earned his first All-Star nod and a spot on the All-NBA Second Team last season, thanks to his career-high averages of 28.7 points, 6.7 assists, and 3.6 rebounds per game. Demonstrating his value even further, Brunson excelled in the postseason, posting remarkable averages of 32.4 points and 7.5 assists per game, leading the Knicks to the second round of the playoffs.
Team-friendly Extension
Less than two months ago, Brunson signed a four-year, $156.5 million contract extension, a deal that many consider to be team-friendly. Remarkably, Brunson chose to leave over $100 million on the table to provide the Knicks with financial flexibility, a gesture that underscores his commitment to the team's success.
Knicks president Leon Rose spoke highly of Brunson's leadership qualities. "The New York Knicks have a deep and storied history and today we are immensely proud to add to that lineage by naming Jalen Brunson as our captain," Rose stated. He added, "Jalen is a natural-born leader, and I am confident he will continue to represent our organization, fans, city, and his teammates with the same heart, grit, and class that he has displayed each and every day since he came to New York."
Recent Additions and Injuries
The offseason has been busy for the Knicks, marked by significant player movements and the ongoing recovery of key team members. The team successfully re-signed OG Anunoby while orchestrating a trade for Mikal Bridges, a move that is expected to bolster the team's competitiveness.
However, the team has also had to contend with injuries. Julius Randle missed the postseason due to injury, and Josh Hart is currently recovering. Brunson himself underwent surgery in May to repair a broken hand, an obstacle he has since overcome.
Despite these challenges, the Knicks are positioning themselves as serious contenders in the Eastern Conference, which is currently dominated by the Boston Celtics, the reigning champions.
Looking Forward
As the Knicks prepare for the upcoming season, Brunson’s leadership will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in their pursuit of success. His decision to accept a team-friendly extension, coupled with his remarkable on-court performances, has already won him the respect and admiration of his teammates and fans alike. This latest accolade, naming him captain, is a testament to his impact and the bright future that lies ahead for both him and the Knicks.
With Brunson at the helm, the Knicks are poised to build on last season's achievements. As the new season approaches, all eyes will be on the young captain and his ability to inspire his team to new heights. His blend of skill, determination, and selflessness sets a powerful example, one that could very well lead the Knicks to greater accomplishments in the years to come.