Jalen Brunson isn’t just winning games for the New York Knicks; he’s rewriting the franchise record books. With his latest masterpiece, the star point guard has further cemented his status as one of the organization’s all-time greats while keeping their championship hopes firmly alive. Since acquiring Brunson, New York has transformed from a wandering franchise into a legitimate heavyweight in the Eastern Conference.
Despite suffering consecutive postseason eliminations at the hands of the Indiana Pacers, this roster clearly possesses the talent to reach the NBA Finals. While some critics argue the team has hit its ceiling, Brunson’s dominance in high-stakes moments suggests they are just getting started.
How Did Jalen Brunson Make History Against the Raptors?
In a crucial NBA Cup elimination game, Brunson delivered exactly what New York needed. He poured in 35 points, grabbed three rebounds, and dished out four assists to power the Knicks past the Toronto Raptors. The victory not only eliminated Toronto from the NBA Cup quarterfinals but also moved New York one step closer to capturing the mid-season tournament title.
Beyond the impressive stat line, the performance saw Brunson making franchise history. He has now tied Knicks legend Richie Guerin for the third-most 30-point games in team history.
Although Guerin starred in the 1950s and 1960s, an era distinct from the modern game, longtime fans recognize him as one of the most skilled players ever to wear the uniform. Joining him on such an exclusive list makes Brunson’s accomplishment all the more noteworthy as he climbs the ranks of Knicks legends.
Can This Knicks Squad Finally Win It All?
The Boston Celtics and Los Angeles Lakers often dominate the conversation about historic franchises, but this Knicks team is trying to build a legacy that rivals them. An argument could be made that New York sits right behind those storied clubs in terms of franchise prestige, and this current group is eager to add to that history.
While advancing deep in the NBA Cup is a priority, Brunson and his squad remain focused on the ultimate prize: an NBA championship. Given that the only team that has consistently bested them is now dealing with serious injuries, the door appears wide open for New York to make a run to the Finals.
As it stands, the team is performing at an elite level with a 17-7 record. That mark places them second in the East, trailing only Cade Cunningham and the Detroit Pistons. With Brunson playing at an MVP level and the standings shaking out in their favor, fans are left wondering just how high this team can soar.