Signing Jalen Brunson became a monumental decision for the New York Knicks. Despite having a decent run with the Dallas Mavericks, Brunson’s performance this season defied expectations. The team has benefitted tremendously since Brunson joined last season. Because of his performance, the star guard has entered discussions to remain among the league’s best guards alongside Steph Curry and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander.
On ESPN’s First Take, Kendrick Perkins made a bold statement regarding Brunson. Perkins joined Stephen A. Smith and Molly Qerim on the esteemed show. The host asked Perkins which point guard he would choose over the New York Knicks star in the show’s Who Ya Got? segment. Surprisingly, the analyst stated something would shock basketball fans. This is what he said:
I wouldn't take one. Nobody. And there's no disrespect to Steph Curry. Its no disrespect to SGA. But I'm not taking anybody over Jalen Brunson. Kendrick Perkins via ESPN First Take
Jalen Brunson is averaging career-high points this season. He has had a positive impact on the Knicks. Perkins also added that to support his claim. The analyst mentioned the team’s recent 3-1 road trip to the West Coast and the praise Brunson received from the Sacramento Kings head coach Mike Brown and the Golden State Warriors’ Draymond Green . Hence, all adorations and praise made Perkins not choose anyone over Brunson.
SGA is one of the contenders for this year’s MVP award, and his team is at the top of the toughest conference in the league. The star is also ahead of Brunson regarding points, rebounds, and assists. On the other hand, Steph Curry has performed well, considering the struggling situation of his team.
Draymond Green praises Jalen Brunson amid the Warriors loss
Perkins was not the only one who complimented Brunson. Warriors forward Draymond Green praised the Knicks star on The Draymond Green Show. The Knicks won on the road against the Warriors on Monday. Brunson had an electric 34-point performance, which resulted in his opponent praising him.
Green talked about Brunson getting drafted in the second round of the NBA draft after being named National Player of the Year in college. Green was also in a similar situation during his draft. Hence, he found commonalities with Brunson. The athlete further also talked about the Knicks star’s upgrade from Dallas to now. This is what Green said:
He is playing at an all-NBA level. It’s good to see him getting his due that he’s getting. Draymond Green via his podcast
Some would say the Mavericks made a mistake letting Brunson leave. They had the opportunity to sign him to a bargain deal. However, Brunson left to start a new chapter in his career. So far, he has exceeded expectations and the Knicks fans remain content with their top star.
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