Jalen Brunson has been named the New York Knicks’ first captain since the 2018-19 season when Lance Thomas had that role, marking a significant milestone for the franchise. The Knicks announced Brunson as the 36th captain in team history.
“Jalen is a natural born leader,” said Knicks president Leon Rose. Brunson’s leadership and performance have been pivotal for the team.
The 27-year-old guard becomes the 18th guard in Knicks history to be named captain. Brunson is the fourth second-round pick to receive this honor.
In the 2023-24 season, Brunson averaged 28.7 points, 6.7 assists, and 3.6 rebounds per game. He finished fifth in MVP voting and was named to the All-NBA Second Team.
Brunson’s scoring average of 26.5 points per game is the second-highest in Knicks history. He recorded a career-high 61 points against the Spurs, the second-highest in team history.
During the 2024 NBA Playoffs, Brunson led the Knicks to the second round, averaging 32.4 points and 7.5 assists. He set a record with 40+ points and at least five assists in four consecutive playoff games.
Brunson’s 47 points against the 76ers surpassed Bernard King’s playoff record for the Knicks. He joined elite company by scoring 40 points and 10 assists in a series-clinching win.
Brunson’s 210 points over a five-game span in the playoffs were the most since Michael Jordan in 1993. He has career averages of 16.9 points, 4.7 assists, and 3.2 rebounds per game.
Brunson finished the 2023-24 season ranked fourth in the NBA in points per game and fourth in total points scored. He previously helped lead the Mavericks to the 2022 Western Conference Finals.
Brunson’s leadership extends off the court through his Second Round Foundation, which empowers youth through education, sport, and community. He is also involved with the MSG Family of Companies’ Garden of Dreams Foundation.
