Dec 28, 2024; Washington, District of Columbia, USA; New York Knicks head coach Tom Thibodeau (R) and Knicks guard Jalen Brunson (11) look on during a stoppage in play against the Washington Wizards in the third quarterat Capital One Arena. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-Imagn Images Geoff Burke-Imagn Images

Tom Thibodeau Makes Feelings Clear About Knicks Star Jalen Brunson

Originally posted on Fastbreak on SI | By Ben Stinar | Last updated May 10, 2025 3:25 PM ET

The New York Knicks are currently in the middle of a second-round playoff series with the Boston Celtics.

Before Game 3 (on Saturday), head coach Tom Thibodeau was asked about All-Star point guard Jalen Brunson.

Thibodeau (via SNY's Knicks Videos): "He's at his best when his best is needed... He prepares himself well for all these moments. I think all of his confidence comes from his preparation. He's put in a lot of work. There's gonna be stretches where he doesn't miss any shots. He can score a lot of different ways, and he can also beat you with the pass."

"He's at his best when his best is needed."

- Tom Thibodeau on Jalen Brunson pic.twitter.com/XVjl4qa87y
— Knicks Videos (@sny_knicks) May 10, 2025

Brunson is the team's best player, as he finished the regular season with outstanding averages of 26.0 points, 2.9 rebounds and 7.3 assists per contest while shooting 48.8% from the field and 38.3% from the three-point range in 65 games.

He is in his third season with the franchise after spending the first four years with the Dallas Mavericks.

Via StatMuse: "Jalen Brunson in the clutch:

— 1st in PPG
— 1st in field goals
— 2nd in points
— 2nd in clutch free throws
— 3rd in assists

The first Eastern Conference player in NBA history to win Clutch Player of the Year."

Jalen Brunson in the clutch:

— 1st in PPG
— 1st in field goals
— 2nd in points
— 2nd in clutch free throws
— 3rd in assists

The first Eastern Conference player in NBA history to win Clutch Player of the Year. pic.twitter.com/BpOv7Zf0IN
— StatMuse (@statmuse) April 23, 2025