The last time Knicks were in the Conference Finals, Jalen Brunson was just three-years-old, running around in the locker room while his father Rick took care of business on the court. Yeah, it’s been that long. But after 25 gruelling years, JB has finally led the franchise to that stage once again. That too in the most dominant way possible—by dethroning the reigning champs!
With an opportunity to close out the series in MSG, the New York team absolutely decimated the Celtics tonight, blowing them out by 38 points. As expected, Jalen was hyped after the historic win. But even amid celebration, he was a bit concerned about what his dad would think of his postgame comments. Addressing what it means to end the Knicks’ 25-year curse, the superstar said on ESPN, “I mean this is great. I mean the fact that we haven’t been here since my dad played or was on the team…”
A subtle smirk took over Jalen’s face as he gave Rick a side eye, who was standing close by. “He’s not gonna like that.” JB added, while the on-air announcers burst out laughing. Rick Brunson, who is now an assistant coach for the Knicks, was part of the roster that reached the East Finals back in 2000. Only in the third year of his career, Rick’s contribution in that playoff run was not much, but he was a part of the team, nevertheless.
Of course, Rick was never the star his son is today. Although he had a solid nine-year NBA career, the assistant coach averaged only 3.2 points and nearly three assists. Now, he is filled with pride watching Jalen carry the Knicks to the same heights they were at in the 90s. Even Jalen understands the impact it has had on New York, “It means a lot for this organization and this city.” That’s why JB aims to keep this momentum going.
Jalen Brunson claims Knicks have “a long way to go” as he addresses East Finals against Pacers
Now that the Knicks have overcome the Celtics challenge, that too with flying colors, their focus will shift to the next task—beating the Pacers. Last year, they took Tyrese Haliburton and Co. to Game 7 in the East Semis but could not get over the hump. Now, the Pacers stand in their way once again, and this time Brunson seems more prepared. “I mean you gotta have lot of composure, lot of fight. I mean they’re a good team as well and we have a long way to go.” He said, about the upcoming Conference Finals matchup.
via Imago
Well, if the Knicks play anything like they did tonight, they should not have much difficulty beating the Indiana team. They played arguably their best game of the season to eliminate the Celtics, with their starters combining for 99 points. Everything was clicking for the Knicks and there were no loose ends.
Jalen even talked about it after the historic win, “Just the way we kept our composure. Game 5, they got the best of us and the way we responded and we just found a way to keep making plays on the defensive side and then offense was rolling.”
With the 25-year curse over, the Knicks now have the chance to make it to their first NBA Finals since 1999. Although it will not be easy, they seem ready for the challenge. Do you think they can do it?
