Knicks accuse NBA of 'harassment' over Rick Brunson inquiry

The NBA and the New York Knicks are reportedly at odds over the franchise's decision to promote Rick Brunson, the father of Jalen Brunson, to the role of Tom Thibodeau's assistant.

According to SNY's Ian Begley, the NBA recently contacted the Knicks to check if Rick's promotion "violates league salary cap rules," with the insinuation that the assistant coach's salary is compensation for the pay cut that his son, Jalen, took when he signed a four-year, $156 million contract extension. The All-Star point guard was eligible to sign a $270 million contract in 2025 but agreed to a significantly lesser extension a year before. 

As per the report, the NBA implied that the Knicks promoted Rick as a reward for Jalen signing a team-friendly deal. 

MSG Sports responded with a strongly-worded statement on Monday, accusing the NBA of "harassment" and calling the league's accusations "offensive." The franchise also clarified that Rick assumed the same salary as his predecessor, Johnnie Bryant, while being promoted and did not receive any special compensation. 

‘‘In response to the rumored NBA investigation into Rick Brunson’s promotion, Brunson took (former associate head coach) Johnnie Bryant’s place and assumed the same salary as Bryant. It's offensive that anyone would claim Rick didn’t deserve the promotion. Rick has done a tremendous job and will continue to do so. We see this as more harassment of the Knicks due to our opposition to certain NBA matters."