Jalen Brunson Is Playing Like an MVP-and the Knicks Are Playing Like Contenders
In a league where Nikola Jokic and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander have dominated MVP conversations, Jalen Brunson is forcing his way into that elite tier-and he’s doing it with grit, precision, and a whole lot of winning basketball. The New York Knicks aren’t just relevant again-they’re a force.
And Brunson? He’s the engine behind it all.
Let’s talk facts. The Knicks are 20-8 and sitting second in the Eastern Conference.
That’s not just a hot start-it’s sustained, high-level basketball. And they’ve got hardware to show for it, too, after bringing home the inaugural NBA Cup from Las Vegas.
If you’re looking for a player who embodies value to his team, look no further than the 6'2" point guard running the show at Madison Square Garden.
The Case for Brunson: Production Meets Winning
The MVP conversation always starts with two things: numbers and wins. Brunson’s got both.
He’s the best player on a Knicks team that’s near the top of the standings. That alone puts him in the discussion.
But this isn’t just about being the best player on a good team. Brunson has elevated his game to a level where he’s not just leading-he’s taking over games in a way that demands attention.
He’s scoring efficiently, running the offense with poise, and delivering in clutch moments. That’s MVP stuff.
Still, there’s no denying the competition. Jokic continues to be a walking triple-double who makes the game look effortless.
Gilgeous-Alexander is putting up monster numbers while guiding the Thunder to the top of the West. These guys have set the bar sky-high, and they’ve done it consistently.
Brunson’s challenge isn’t just about outplaying them-it’s about changing the narrative. He’s not 6'9", he’s not a former MVP, and he doesn’t yet have a Finals run under his belt. But what he does have is a growing résumé that includes an NBA Cup MVP and a team that looks ready to make real noise in the postseason.
Breaking the Mold, One Win at a Time
Let’s be honest-Brunson’s had to overcome the “too small to be a franchise guy” label since the day he entered the league. But here he is, not just surviving but thriving as the focal point of a team with championship aspirations.
Head coach Mike Brown has been one of his biggest believers, and it’s easy to see why. Under Brown’s leadership, the Knicks have sharpened their identity.
They’re defending, they’re playing with purpose, and they’re leaning on Brunson to lead them through tight games and big moments. That kind of trust from a coaching staff-and that kind of response from a player-is what separates good from great.
And make no mistake, Brunson is pushing toward greatness.
The Standard Is the Championship
For all the accolades and the rising MVP chatter, Brunson’s eyes are locked on one thing: the Larry O’Brien Trophy. That’s the standard now in New York.
It’s why the organization made a coaching change. It’s why the roster is built the way it is.
And it’s why Brunson’s MVP campaign, as impressive as it’s been, is still just a stepping stone.
He’s not chasing the MVP to prove doubters wrong. He’s chasing a title because that’s what great players do. But if he gets there-if the Knicks go all the way-those old narratives about size and superstardom will finally fade into the background.
Until then, Brunson will keep doing what he does best: showing up, showing out, and winning basketball games. And if he keeps this up, the MVP talk won’t just be noise-it’ll be reality.