The New York Knicks have ushered in a new era of leadership by naming Jalen Brunson the team's captain for the 2024-25 season. At just 27 years old, Brunson is set to become the 36th captain in the franchise's storied history.
A Leader on and off the Court
The elevation of Brunson to captaincy comes as no surprise to those who have closely followed his career. Knicks president Leon Rose reflected on Brunson's impact, stating, "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 continued, "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."
Big Numbers and Bigger Heart
Brunson's leadership on the court is backed by an impressive resume. Last season, he not only earned his first All-Star nod but also secured a spot on the All-NBA Second Team. With career-high averages of 28.7 points, 6.7 assists, and 3.6 rebounds per game, he proved his mettle. His performance in the postseason was even more stellar, as he averaged 32.4 points and 7.5 assists per game, helping the Knicks reach the second round of the playoffs despite the absence of Julius Randle due to injury.
A Commitment to the Team
Brunson's commitment to the Knicks extends beyond his on-court exploits. Less than two months ago, he signed a team-friendly four-year, $156.5 million contract extension. Remarkably, Brunson left over $100 million on the table, a move intended to provide the Knicks with financial flexibility as they build around him. This selfless act underscores his dedication to the team's long-term success.
Building for the Future
The Knicks have been active in building a competitive roster around their new captain. This offseason, the team re-signed OG Anunoby and orchestrated a significant trade for Mikal Bridges. However, they will still need to navigate the challenges posed by injuries. Julius Randle missed the entirety of the postseason, and Josh Hart is currently recovering from an injury. Additionally, Brunson himself underwent surgery in May to repair a broken hand, although he is expected to make a full recovery.
Eastern Conference Showdown
The upcoming season is expected to be highly competitive, especially with the Boston Celtics reigning as the Eastern Conference champions. The Knicks, however, are quietly confident that their roster changes, coupled with Brunson's leadership, can pave the way for a deep playoff run.
As the new captain, Jalen Brunson carries not just the hopes of the Knicks but the aspirations of a fanbase eager for a return to glory. His leadership, both on and off the court, promises to be a cornerstone of the team's quest for success in the 2024-25 season and beyond.