Jalen Brunson is impressed with Jose Alvarado’s instant impact for the New York Knicks originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

Despite some of the fans’ worries, the New York Knicks made minimal moves at the trade deadline. However, they did make an impactful move, which was trading with the New Orleans Pelicans for Jose Alvarado.

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The Knicks already had good depth at the point guard position with Miles McBride and Tyler Kolek behind Brunson in the rotation. Now, they have Alvarado, who is filling in for McBride, who’s sidelined with a long-term injury.

Brunson appreciates Alvarado’s impact

Over the years, NBA fans have grown accustomed to seeing Alvarado be a nuisance for the Pelicans‘ opponents. He is one of the most impressive defenders in the point guard position. Alvarado is not a physically imposing player, but he is always working hard.

That goes a long way because he is a smart defender, but he is also an underrated offensive player. That was evident with his debut for the Knicks on Sunday against the Boston Celtics. He had 12 points, two rebounds, two assists, and two steals.

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MORE: Why Knicks should be ecstatic about Jose Alvarado trade news

Alvarado is one of the best teammates anyone can have, which is why Josh Hart is also a big fan of him. They played together in New Orleans, and they are now bringing that chaotic energy to a championship-contending team.

Brunson himself appreciates what he has seen from Alvarado. They were caught on camera talking to each other before the game, and that translated well into the game itself.

“He was great. The impact on the game right away, it was amazing. That’s what we needed. Just happy to see him in the blue and orange,” Brunson said about Alvarado’s impact.

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As long as Alvarado continues to be a great teammate, he will have a role on the team. Head coach Mike Brown seems to appreciate him and give him some good minutes.

In the long run, Alvarado will be a good contributor for the Knicks. It will be a challenging path for the Knicks, but it can be made easier with the pesky point guard’s impact.

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