After watching Jalen Brunson dominate in the 2022 NBA Playoffs, Luka Doncic knew that the player would be incredible.
Luka Doncic, the standout guard for the Dallas Mavericks, has long recognized the potential of his former teammate Jalen Brunson, who is currently making waves with the New York Knicks. Despite some being surprised by Brunson’s breakout success with the Knicks, Doncic always believed it was just a matter of time before Brunson would emerge as a star.
Recalling a pivotal game during the 2022 playoff run against the Utah Jazz, Doncic highlighted Brunson’s exceptional performance when the team needed a win to avoid a challenging 0-2 deficit. Brunson’s impressive stats, including 41 points, eight rebounds, and five assists, left Doncic in awe, solidifying his belief in Brunson’s talent.
During their time together in Dallas, Brunson gradually earned a significant role in the Mavericks’ rotation, especially standing out in the 2022 playoffs. Doncic praised Brunson’s work ethic and dedication to improvement, emphasizing his commitment to excellence both on and off the court.
Despite Brunson’s departure to the Knicks, leaving a void in the Mavericks’ lineup, Doncic acknowledges that joining the Knicks was the right move for Brunson’s career. With Brunson thriving in New York and earning his first All-Star selection, Doncic expresses pride in his former teammate’s achievements. Brunson’s success validates Doncic’s early recognition of his potential.
Jalen Brunson’s remarkable season with the Knicks, averaging 27.2 points, 6.5 assists, and 3.9 rebounds per game, reinforces his impact on the team’s success. As he continues to lead the Knicks, speculation grows about his potential to become one of the greatest players in Knicks history, especially if he can guide the team to an elusive NBA championship, a feat the franchise hasn’t achieved in 51 years. Brunson’s extraordinary career trajectory, from skepticism about his contract with the Knicks to leading them to playoff success and earning an All-Star selection, positions him as a player with the potential to leave a lasting legacy in the annals of basketball history.
