Jalen Brunson Gives Surprising Take on NBA 'Star' Status in Video Amid Knicks' Playoff Run
New York Knicks guard Jalen Brunson resisted being called a "star" as he and his team prepare for the Eastern Conference Finals.
A reporter posited Wednesday that "some stars might push back" on how the Knicks have recently utilized Brunson on offense. They then asked Brunson how he can seamlessly slot into a more off-ball role.
"One, I'm not a star. Two, I want to win," he said.
Brunson is being a little too humble.
The 29-year-old isn't on the level of Stephen Curry, LeBron James, Kevin Durant, Giannis Antetokounmpo, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander or Nikola Jokić, players who have won a MVP along with an NBA title. But he's a three-time All-Star and two-time All-NBA honoree with a top-five finish in the 2023-24 MVP voting.
Brunson is unquestionably a star-level talent. He was No. 13 in Bleacher Report's midseason ranking of the 99 best players.
Brunson's remarks were clearly intended to emphasize how badly he wants to win a title.
For the Knicks, it's great that a player of his caliber is willing to cede the spotlight and take a step back as needed. OG Anunoby has been the hot hand for New York so far in the postseason, while Mikal Bridges and Karl-Anthony Towns have chipped in with positive contributions.
In the conference finals and perhaps beyond, there may be moments when Brunson has to put the team on his back. He knows that always won't be the case, and that has to be music to the ears of coach Mike Brown.
