Knicks News

Jalen Brunson Reveals His Favorite Knicks Moment — and Why It Still Gives Him Chills

Published

4 days ago

09/21/2025

In just three seasons with the New York Knicks, Jalen Brunson has produced countless highlights. But when asked about his favorite moment during a Ronald McDonald House Charities event, he didn’t hesitate:
“My first All-Star announcement.”

That unforgettable night came on February 1, 2024, when Brunson was named an All-Star for the first time in his career. Hours later, he poured in 40 points against the Indiana Pacers, sending Madison Square Garden into a frenzy of MVP chants. The guard was visibly emotional afterward, overwhelmed by the culmination of his long journey.

From Overlooked Prospect to Rising Star

Brunson’s path to stardom wasn’t straightforward. After a decorated college career at Villanova — where he captured two national titles — he was drafted 33rd overall by the Dallas Mavericks in 2018. Early on, he was pegged as a role player.

But in the 2021-22 season, he broke through, including a 41-point playoff explosion against the Utah Jazz that helped Dallas reach the Western Conference Finals. Still, that run was his last in Texas. The Knicks swooped in during free agency, signing him to a four-year, $104 million deal many critics initially called an overpay.

Thriving as the Knicks’ Franchise Player

That narrative quickly flipped. By the 2024-25 season, Brunson was firmly established as New York’s go-to option, averaging 26.0 points, 7.3 assists, and 2.9 rebounds per game. He was named Clutch Player of the Year, earned All-NBA Second-Team honors for the second straight season, and became a fan favorite at MSG.

Brunson also delivered in the playoffs, guiding the Knicks to the Eastern Conference Finals for the first time since 2000. While New York ultimately fell to the Indiana Pacers in six games, it solidified his status as one of the NBA’s elite point guards.

The Road Ahead: A Clearer Path to the Finals

With Tyrese Haliburton sidelined after tearing his Achilles during the 2025 NBA Finals, the Pacers are unlikely to be contenders in 2026. That shift has positioned the Knicks as one of the favorites to win the East.

Brunson, now a two-time All-Star at age 29, isn’t content with past accolades. His message heading into the new season is simple: stay focused, keep working, and deliver for a city that’s embraced him as its leader.

Related Topics:Jalen Brunson Knicks NBA New York Knicks

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Mikal Bridges Explains Knicks Pay Cut: “I Want to Win Bad”

Published

59 minutes ago

09/25/2025

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Mikal Bridges has quickly become one of the most valuable players for the New York Knicks, just one season after arriving from the Brooklyn Nets.

Bridges’ Breakout Season in New York

In his first year with the Knicks, Bridges played all 82 games, averaging 17.6 points per contest while playing a pivotal role in the team’s deep playoff run. His defensive brilliance was on full display in the Eastern Conference Semifinalsagainst the Boston Celtics, where he delivered game-saving stops in Games 1 and 2, helping New York win the series in six games.

Four-Year Extension with a Twist

This offseason, the Knicks rewarded Bridges with a four-year, $150 million contract extension. However, Bridges could have earned even more by waiting until next summer to sign. Instead, he chose to leave money on the table — even taking a slight pay cut — to give the franchise more financial flexibility.

When asked about his decision, Bridges emphasized his commitment to winning above all else:

“If I came here preaching about how much I want to win, and then tried to take every dollar, I’d seem like a fraud,” Bridges said. “That’s not who I am. I want to win bad.”

Knicks’ Title Hopes Rest on Bridges’ Impact

Now locked in long-term, Bridges will be a cornerstone of New York’s pursuit of its first NBA championship since 1973. After falling just short of the NBA Finals last season, the Knicks are hoping Bridges’ selflessness and two-way impact can help push them over the top in 2026.

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Josh Hart Jokes About Trade If Benched: “I Deserve to Be a Starter”

Published

2 hours ago

09/25/2025

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Josh Hart has never been the most natural fit in the New York Knicks’ starting lineup, but the versatile forward continues to embrace the challenge — even with a bit of humor.

Hart’s Joke About a Possible Bench Role

When asked on Tuesday about the possibility of not starting under new head coach Mike Brown, Hart delivered a tongue-in-cheek response:

“If I don’t start, I’ll probably ask for a trade,” Hart joked.

While clearly in jest, Hart also made it clear that he views himself as a legitimate starter in the NBA.

Career-Best Season in New York

The 29-year-old forward is coming off the best year of his career. Hart started all 77 games he played, averaging 13.6 points, 9.6 rebounds, and 5.9 assists per game, while also setting a new single-season Knicks record with nine triple-doubles.

Despite his impressive numbers, questions about his on-court fit persist. His lack of size and perimeter spacing occasionally disrupted the Knicks’ offensive flow. Still, Hart believes his production speaks for itself.

“I think I’m a starter in this league. I think I deserve to be a starter. But at the end of the day, it’s about what’s best for the team. Last year, I talked a lot about sacrifice and being a good steward of my gifts.”

A Key Piece in Knicks’ Title Hopes

Whether he begins games on the floor or comes off the bench, Hart will remain an essential figure for a Knicks team with championship aspirations in 2026. His energy, versatility, and leadership make him a cornerstone of New York’s rotation as they chase their first title since 1973.

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Karl-Anthony Towns Shuts Down Knee Surgery Rumors: “Where Are You Hearing This?”

Published

4 hours ago

09/25/2025

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Karl-Anthony Towns powered through multiple minor injuries last season for the New York Knicks, proving his resilience and value to the franchise. The star forward dealt with a finger issue and nagging knee pain, yet still delivered one of the best campaigns of his career.

Towns averaged 24.4 points and 12.8 rebounds per game, earning both an All-Star selection and All-NBA honors. His performance was instrumental in leading the Knicks to their first Eastern Conference Finals appearance since 2000.

Addressing the Surgery Rumors

In June, an ESPN report circulated claiming that Towns had undergone procedures to repair damage in both his knee and finger. But when asked directly about it during Media Day, Towns laughed off the speculation.

“No, I did not have a knee procedure. Where are you hearing this?” Towns said with a smile, before jokingly adding:
“Who did that? Centel?” — referencing the parody X account NBACentel.

Knicks Counting on a Healthy Towns in 2026

While Towns denied undergoing surgery, the focus now shifts to how he manages his health heading into the new season. His durability will be key as the Knicks aim to turn last season’s playoff breakthrough into a legitimate NBA title run.

The Knicks are among the favorites to represent the Eastern Conference in the 2026 NBA Finals, and Towns will remain at the center of their aspirations as they chase their first championship since 1973.