The New York Knicks are Jalen Brunson's team, and when you commit to a superstar, there is generally some baggage.
The Milwaukee Bucks had to keep Thanasis Antetokounmpo on the roster for five seasons to appease his brother, and the Knicks hired Rick Brunson, Jalen's father, as an assistant before Jalen's first season in the Big Apple.
A recent report revealed some player's unfiltered toughts on him pacing the sidelines.
Brunson, to his credit, is not a nepotism hire. He spent nine seasons in the NBA as a journeyman point guard and has been an assistant coach for the Denver Nuggets, Chicago Bulls, Charlotte Bobcats, and Minnesota Timberwolves before being hired by New York.
He has been a member of Tom Thibodeau's staff on three separate occasions, although current players think he has too much power in the organization.
"Multiple Knicks players have been unhappy with the presence of assistant coach Rick Brunson, the father of star guard Jalen Brunson," reported Sam Amico. "What that issue is, exactly, has not been determined, though sources suggested that Rick has had too big a say in things."
As long as Jalen is the best player on the team, it's expected that Rick will have some say, although Jalen's teammates seem to think he has overstepped some boundaries.
"One source called Rick the person with the most power in the entire organization," Amico continued. "His status is uncertain following Thibodeau’s dismissal, though considering he’s Jalen’s dad, many assume Rick will remain with the team in some capacity."
Rick had the unwavering support of Thibodeau, although with him being fired, there might be some more moves to come in New York.
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