The New York Knicks haven’t had an MVP since Willis Reed in the 1969-70 season.
Past MVP Contenders
Since Reed, a few Knicks have come close to winning the MVP award. Bernard King was second in 1983-84, Carmelo Anthony placed third in 2012-13, and Patrick Ewing finished fourth in 1994-95. Could Jalen Brunson finally break this long-standing drought?
Brunson’s Rising Star
James L. Edwards III from The Athletic thinks Brunson is perfectly positioned to win the Michael Jordan Trophy for the 2024-25 season. Last year, Brunson finished fifth in MVP voting and has consistently improved each season. He scored an average of 28.7 points last season despite challenging spacing on the court. Now, with better team dynamics and spacing, he might take another leap forward.
“Jalen Brunson will win MVP,” Edwards confidently states. “New York’s offense should shine, with Brunson leading as their best offensive player.”
Team Dynamics and Improvements
The Knicks have made some strategic changes that could benefit Brunson’s game even more. Adding Karl-Anthony Towns provides a strong pick-and-pop partner for him. This also allows players like Mikal Bridges, OG Anunoby, and Josh Hart to focus on hitting open shots from the perimeter.
Previously lacking a stretch big man like Towns meant relying on players such as Mitchell Robinson for rim-running rather than scoring versatility.
Defensive Support
Brunson won’t have to worry about tough defensive assignments anymore either. With Bridges, Hart, and Anunoby handling those tasks, he can concentrate on what he does best: offense! This balanced lineup gives him room to excel offensively without being weighed down by defensive duties.
Fans are excited about this new chapter for the Knicks!
Consistent Growth
Over his last four seasons playing basketball professionally (PPG), Jalen has increased his scoring from 12.6 points per game up through nearly thirty now! His assists per game (APG) have also steadily risen during these years tooโtalk about impressive growth!
During a preseason match against Charlotte Hornets recently held Sunday nightโBrunson-Towns duo showed glimpses of greatness together already seen by many analysts including ESPNโs Monica McNutt who analyzed footage explaining how having someone like Towns around creates space allowing more opportunities offensively speaking
As we head into this exciting new NBA season starting October twenty-second when they face off against Boston Celtics first thingโit seems likely that young starlet will continue making waves potentially earning himself well-deserved recognition among leagueโs elite players soon enough according BETMGM odds currently placing seventh-shortest chance claiming prestigious title ultimately proving doubters wrong once again!
