Jalen Brunson does not need much time to recognize what Bruce Brown could bring to the New York Knicks.

After years of watching him from the opposing side, Brunson is getting a closer look at the veteran during training camp and preseason. So far, Brown has shown the Knicks captain the qualities he already respected as a competitor.

“I’ve known Bruce for a while. Everything I’ve seen from afar as a competitor I’ve seen in these couple weeks here. I think the things that he can do for us can be very helpful,” Brunson said.

The endorsement is encouraging for Brown, but his place in New York remains unsettled. He joined the Knicks on a non-guaranteed training camp deal after playing all 82 games for Denver last season. He averaged eight points, four rebounds, two assists and one steal in 24 minutes per game, according to SNY. sny.tv

For a player trying to turn a preseason opportunity into a regular-season job, earning Brunson’s confidence is a useful start.

Brown’s potential value comes from his ability to contribute without needing a steady diet of shots.

Alongside Brunson, a useful role could involve screening, cutting and helping move the ball when defenses load up on the Knicks’ primary creator. Those responsibilities would give Brown ways to affect possessions even when he is not the player finishing them.

A screen that forces a defensive switch or a timely cut can create an easier opportunity for a teammate. When Brunson draws multiple defenders, keeping the ball moving can help New York take advantage before the defense resets.

That is where Brown could make his case. The Knicks would not need him to take over their offense. They would need him to help lineups function through quick decisions, movement and dependable execution.

Brunson’s comments suggest his early impression has been positive. Still, translating that familiarity into productive minutes requires Brown to establish chemistry with different combinations.

The remaining preseason gives him a chance to show where he fits best and which responsibilities he can handle consistently. His strongest argument would be making the players around him more effective while giving coach Mike Brown another dependable option.

Brown’s performance will not be the only factor determining whether he stays.

According to SNY’s Ian Begley, New York’s commitment to remaining below the second salary apron leaves enough financial room for one veteran addition. Keeping both a veteran wing and a veteran center would require trading a player already on an NBA contract. sny.tv

That puts Brown in a competition shaped by roster needs as much as individual play. The Knicks must decide where another veteran would provide the greatest benefit.

Brunson’s endorsement strengthens the basketball case for Brown. Now, Brown must continue showing that his contributions are useful enough for New York to prioritize keeping him when it finalizes its roster.