New York Knicks head coach Mike Brown emphasized creating easier scoring opportunities for Jalen Brunson ahead of the 2025–26 season.
Brown highlighted catch-and-shoot opportunities, saying, “One of the easiest shots is a spray three…I’m a big proponent of touching the paint and spraying that basketball for a catch-and-shoot three.”
Last summer, Brunson signed a four-year, $156.5 million extension, choosing a shorter deal to give the Knicks roster flexibility. He was also named the 36th captain in franchise history.
During the 2024–25 season, Brunson averaged 26 points and 7.3 assists per game while leading the Knicks in clutch scoring and earning the NBA Clutch Player of the Year award.
He set several franchise playoff records, including the most 40-point playoff games for a Knick and the most 30-point playoff games, surpassing Patrick Ewing and Bernard King.
Brunson’s playoff performances included 40 points in a series-clinching win over Detroit and 39 points with 12 assists against Boston in the Eastern Conference Semifinals.
Brown stressed that positioning Brunson off the ball will allow him to conserve energy while still being a primary offensive threat. This aligns with the coach’s broader philosophy of spacing and efficiency in the Knicks’ offense.
The Knicks aim to build around Brunson, Mikal Bridges, and Josh Hart, blending veteran leadership with offensive versatility. Brown believes that his system will maximize Brunson’s scoring potential without overextending him physically.
