The New York Knicks have made a significant announcement ahead of the 2024-25 NBA season, naming Jalen Brunson as the 36th captain in the team's storied history. The decision, revealed by Knicks president Leon Rose, underscores Brunson's remarkable impact on and off the court since his arrival in New York.
"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," said Rose. "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."
A Season to Remember
Brunson's appointment as captain follows a stellar season in which he earned his first All-Star nod and secured a spot on the All-NBA Second Team. The 27-year-old point guard posted career-high averages of 28.7 points, 6.7 assists, and 3.6 rebounds per game during the regular season. His performances in the postseason were equally impressive, as he averaged 32.4 points and 7.5 assists per game, leading the Knicks to the second round of the playoffs.
Commitment and Sacrifice
Just under two months ago, Brunson solidified his commitment to the Knicks by signing a four-year, $156.5 million contract extension. Notably, he left over $100 million on the table to provide the team with financial flexibility, a gesture that speaks volumes about his dedication to the franchise's long-term success.
Supporting Cast and Offseason Moves
The Knicks' offseason has been a busy one. OG Anunoby re-signed with the team, providing additional depth and defensive prowess. In a bold move, the Knicks orchestrated a trade for Mikal Bridges, further strengthening their roster. However, the team also faces some challenges: Julius Randle missed the postseason due to injury, and Josh Hart is recovering from an injury. Brunson himself had to undergo surgery in May to repair a broken hand.
Looking Ahead to the 2024-25 Season
The upcoming season promises to be a critical one for the Knicks. As the new captain, Brunson will aim to build on last season's successes and navigate the team through the highly competitive Eastern Conference. The reigning champions in the conference, the Boston Celtics, will undoubtedly pose a significant challenge.
With his leadership, work ethic, and unselfish attitude, Brunson is well-positioned to lead the Knicks to new heights. The team’s strategic moves and his personal sacrifices set the stage for what could be an exciting season for Knicks fans and the organization alike.