Jalen Brunson Becomes Knicks' First Captain in Six Years

The New York Knicks have officially appointed Jalen Brunson as the team's captain, marking the first time in six years that the franchise has designated a leader. Brunson, who joined the Knicks in 2022, has quickly established himself as a pivotal figure within the organization. His selection as the 36th captain in Knicks history comes after a notable absence of leadership since Lance Thomas held the title during the 2018-19 season. Knicks President Leon Rose praised Brunson as a "natural born leader," expressing confidence in his ability to represent the team and its values. Rose highlighted Brunson's dedication and character, stating that he embodies the heart, grit, and class that the organization seeks. Brunson's impact on the team has been significant, leading the Knicks to the second round of the Eastern Conference playoffs in both of his seasons with the franchise. Last season, Brunson averaged an impressive 28.7 points per game, which earned him his first All-Star selection and a fifth-place finish in the NBA MVP voting. His performance has solidified his status as a key player for the Knicks and a respected leader among his teammates. With this appointment, Brunson joins an elite group of Knicks captains, becoming the fourth second-round pick to hold the title. Notably, he follows in the footsteps of Hall of Famer Willis Reed, who was famously known as "The Captain" for his leadership on and off the court.