Jalen Brunson is a breakout star for the 2023-24 season. He has emerged as a true standout in the Eastern Conference. His performances helped the New York Knicks advance to the second round of the playoffs, where they will face the Indiana Pacers.
Despite Brunson’s great play and the Knicks’ strong defense, Draymond Green does not believe they are legitimate contenders this season.
“I don’t hate the Knicks,” Green explained. “However, I’m honest and not delusional. And a ball-dominant Jalen Brunson isn’t going to get you to the promised land, I explained. I did not say you wouldn’t win the first round series. I did not even predict you wouldn’t win the second round series. Because, honestly, I believe you should easily win the second-round series. I did not say that. I said you couldn’t get to the promised land. To be honest, I still don’t think you can.
Brunson has averaged 35.5 points, 9.0 assists, and 4.5 rebounds in six postseason games while shooting 42.9% from the field and 30.4% from three. Brunson is taking on a heavy burden without Julius Randle in the rotation. He’s ball-dominant by necessity.
Still, Tom Thibodeau’s squad is playing at a top level. They are a team founded on sound defensive fundamentals. OG Anunoby has elevated that defense to a new level. Brunson and Donte DiVincenzo are both excellent offensive players.
Green has a point, however. If New York advances past the Pacers, it may face the Boston Celtics in the conference finals. Boston is the top basketball team, based on its record, offensive rating, defensive rating, and net rating. It boasts an exceptional top-six rotation. If Kristaps Porzingis returns from injury, the Knicks will struggle to take the series to six games.
Randle’s absence will eventually catch up with the Knicks. Brunson’s magic will be insufficient against Boston. Even if they shock the world by reaching the NBA Finals, the Nuggets, Thunder, Timberwolves, or Mavericks will most likely easily defeat Thibodeau’s side.
The Knicks are not far from being legitimate contenders. Unfortunately, this postseason run comes too soon.
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