Golden State Warriors forward Draymond Green has heaped praise on New York Knicks guard Jalen Brunson, commending his remarkable performances that have silenced critics.
Brunson, who initially faced skepticism after signing a four-year, $100 million deal with the Knicks, has exceeded expectations with his stellar play on the court.
On “The Draymond Green Show,” Green highlighted Brunson’s transformation from being perceived as overpaid to emerging as a standout player for the Knicks.
Despite doubts surrounding Brunson’s potential to serve as a number one option, Green emphasized that the 27-year-old has proven his detractors wrong with his stellar performances.
Green also alluded to Brunson’s connections within the Knicks organization, with his father being hired as an assistant coach by the team during the same summer when Brunson signed his contract.
“No one expected Jaylen to be this. When he signed his deal, right around four years, $100 million, everybody thought he was overpaid. People asked, ‘Do they think he’s going to be a number one option?’ They thought it was just a favor due to his connections with the Knicks organization. Jalen has made everyone look like idiots,” Green said, via HoopsHype.
While Brunson played a secondary role behind Luka Doncic during his time with the Dallas Mavericks, he has thrived as a leader for the Knicks, particularly in the absence of injured Julius Randle.
In this year’s playoffs, Brunson has been nothing short of sensational, averaging 35.6 points, 4.4 rebounds, and 8.1 assists per game.
With Brunson leading the charge, the Knicks have surged ahead in the Eastern Conference semifinals, currently holding a commanding 2-0 series lead against the Indiana Pacers.
