When it comes to the New York Knicks’ captain, Jalen Brunson, it’s truly difficult to describe just how good his impact has had on the team. Since joining the main roster in 2023, Brunson has elevated this Knicks team to newer heights, leading them to two straight second-round appearances and the Eastern Conference Finals for the first time in 25 years. 

Brunson has already finished top five in MVP voting, and has made a strong case for what could be another strong candidacy. But don’t just take my word for it. Instead, listen to his teammate, Miles McBride, and how the backup point guard views Brunson on the team. 

“He's a special guy. We see it in his work, how he prepares every day. He just comes in, does his job and goes home. Keeps it simple.”

McBride and Brunson have been teammates for three straight seasons, with McBride making a handful of starts alongside the point guard, but he has primarily played backup. McBride has always been a key contributor off the bench, whether it was under head coach Tom Thibodeau or newly crowned head coach Mike Brown. 

This season isn’t about McBride, but instead about his counterpart. Brunson has been on fire since returning from a right ankle injury that kept him sidelined for a handful of appearances, averaging 31.6 points and 5.4 assists on 52.7% field-goal and 40.5% three-point shooting. In addition, he ranks seventh in drives per game, 35th in free throws attempted, and ranks sixth in scoring league-wide. 

This isn’t just another regular season; it’s something special. 

Brunson has always been one to never put himself above the team, as any captain should lead the cavalry instead of taking the spotlight. Rarely wanting to receive positive feedback, whether it’s from the fans or the post-game analysts, Brunson has continued to produce the same response: ‘We just find a way to win.’

If you look at the Knicks’ record, it’s everything but a losing team. They rank third in the East, hold a 12-6 record, and have the second-best record league-wide at home at 9-1. They’re fifth in scoring, fourth in offensive rebounding, and a top-three team in turnovers per game. That’s not just excellence, it’s amazing. 

The scariest part about everything, Brunson hasn’t played in every game. Neither has many members of the main roster. If this is what fans can expect from a team that’s truly never had its full roster, just wait and see how they’ll appear at full strength. 

Don’t be shocked when Captain Clutch breaks your favorite team's heart in the fourth quarter.