Jalen Brunson told Vanity Fair the New York Knicks possess talent but lack critical intangibles, saying, “We’re very gifted. We’re very talented. But we need the little things that help us be better… We don’t have it right now.”
The 29-year-old point guard is in the first year of a four-year, $156 million contract with a player option for the final season. He is averaging 27.0 points, 3.3 rebounds, and 6.1 assists per game while shooting 47.0% from the field and 37.4% from beyond the arc this season.
Brunson’s leadership has been a cornerstone of the Knicks’ performance, helping them maintain a 35-20 record, currently third in the Eastern Conference, and pushing for home-court advantage in the playoffs. His scoring and playmaking complement stars Karl-Anthony Towns and OG Anunoby, who are averaging 19.8 and 16.6 points per game, respectively.
The Knicks’ 2024–25 season highlighted the impact of intangibles, as they advanced to the Eastern Conference Finals for the first time in 25 years. Despite clinching victories on the road, New York was eliminated by the Indiana Pacers in six games after showing signs of inconsistency at Madison Square Garden.
Brunson’s comments suggest the team’s current play lacks the cohesion and subtle execution that distinguished their deep playoff run last season.
