Jalen Brunson's late-game efficiency could help Knicks capture elusive NBA championship

"He's at his best when his best is needed," said Knicks HC Tom Thibodeau. "He's done it all year, and that's what makes him special."

A week after the Knicks star was named 2024-25 Kia NBA Clutch Player of the Year, he lived up to the billing.

In a tightly-contested road game in Detroit, Brunson played fearlessly. The former Villanova standout poured in 15 points in the first quarter and carried the Knicks down the stretch. 

Despite the Knicks shooting 33 percent in the fourth quarter in Game 6, Brunson scored timely buckets to keep the team afloat, capped by his 25-foot, series-clinching dagger.

"He's definitely an All-NBA player this year," former NBA All-Star Jeff Teague said of Brunson on his podcast. "If he's not first team All-NBA this year, I don't know what more he can do. He's carrying the franchise. He's literally carrying [the Knicks]."

Late-game heroics are nothing new for Brunson, the recipient of the Jerry West Trophy as the 2024-25 Kia NBA Clutch Player of the Year. The crafty southpaw averaged an NBA-high 5.6 points in clutch situations, which are defined as possessions in the final five minutes of the fourth quarter or overtime when the score is within five points. In such instances, Brunson led the league in field goals made (52) and ranked second in total points (156) and third in total assists (28).

“It’s all about us staying poised and having our composure. Obviously, we want to have it throughout the game, but it’s most important at the end. We all have each other’s backs, and we all know what we want to do. And I’m just thankful for my teammates and coaches,” Brunson said of his team’s ability to win tight games.

Like Yankees legend Mariano Rivera, Brunson has established himself as a trusted closer in New York. Furthermore, Brunson, the offense's engine, could fuel a Knicks championship run.

In the playoffs, most games are decided in the final minutes. During the final stretch, it's important to have a go-to option who can create their own shot and score clutch baskets. Boasting the league's most consistently clutch player, the Knicks are legit title contenders and the top threat in the Eastern Conference to dethrone the Boston Celtics.

New York will begin their semifinals matchup against Boston on Monday.