How Jalen Brunson is approaching James Dolan, Knicks’ NBA Finals expectation originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The New York Knicks have been waiting for such a long time and they are clearly sick of it. So, owner James Dolan made his expectations for the 2025-26 season very clear — it is NBA Finals or bust. A lot more is at stake now for the historic franchise more than ever and this could lead to a bunch of unnecessary pressure for Coach Mike Brown’s squad. Despite the huge mandate, Jalen Brunson accepted the challenge and remained composed in a situation that would otherwise cause panic.

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Brunson’s leadership qualities shine amid Knicks’ NBA Finals expectation

The progression is already there for Jalen Brunson and the Knicks. In the past postseasons, they bowed out of the second round twice before making it to the Eastern Conference Finals in 2025. An NBA Finals appearance would logically be the next step, maybe even a Larry O’Brien trophy for the first time since 1973.

James Dolan made his NBA Finals or bust mandate clear and Brunson had a collected response like a true leader, via James L. Edwards III of The Athletic.

“Obviously, we want to win, which is very important for us. But, our approach matters and how we attack every day. Attacking that goal is really important. I think, regardless, it’s important for us to focus on one day at a time,” the Knicks guard said

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The Knicks do have what it takes to finally win it  all. Brunson and Coach Mike Brown have led the team to an insane 119.8 offensive rating which ranks third in all of the league. Their defense is also not bad as its valued at 113.3 and sits seventh in overall in the association. Clearly, these tools are often enough to deliver an NBA Finals to a city.

One last omen is the Knicks won 53 games on the 53rd anniversary of their last championship. Brunson is gearing up for war and it is clear that Dolan’s ultimatum only sparked a fire inside him to win more.

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