Jalen Brunson Named New York Knicks' Captain for 2024-25 Season
In a move that underscores his rising influence and leadership within the organization, Jalen Brunson has been named the captain of the New York Knicks for the 2024-25 season. This honor comes just under two months after Brunson signed a team-friendly extension, solidifying his commitment to the franchise. At 27 years old, Brunson becomes the 36th captain in the storied history of the Knicks.
Brunson's ascent to this leadership role follows a remarkable season where he earned his first All-Star nod and secured a spot on the All-NBA Second Team. His career-high averages of 28.7 points, 6.7 assists, and 3.6 rebounds per game were testament to his exceptional performance throughout the season. In the postseason, Brunson elevated his game further, averaging 32.4 points and 7.5 assists per game, leading the Knicks to the second round of the playoffs.
"The New York Knicks have a deep and storied history and today we are immensely proud to add to that lineage by naming Jalen Brunson as our captain," said Knicks president Leon Rose. "Jalen is a natural-born leader, and I am confident he will continue to represent our organization, fans, city, and his teammates with the same heart, grit, and class that he has displayed each and every day since he came to New York."
Brunson’s leadership qualities and on-court prowess were pivotal factors in him securing a four-year, $156.5 million contract extension with the Knicks. Demonstrating his team-first mentality, Brunson left over $100 million on the table in his contract extension to provide the Knicks with financial flexibility, a decision that underscores his commitment to the franchise’s long-term success.
The Knicks have also seen other significant roster moves in the off-season. OG Anunoby re-signed with the team, and they orchestrated a trade for Mikal Bridges, bolstering their lineup for the upcoming season. However, the team is not without challenges. Julius Randle missed the postseason due to injury, and Josh Hart is currently recovering from an injury. Moreover, Brunson had to undergo surgery in May to repair a broken hand, yet his swift recovery and ensuing appointment as captain indicate a promising road ahead.
As the reigning champions in the Eastern Conference, the Boston Celtics set a high bar for competition. Nonetheless, with Brunson at the helm, the Knicks are poised to make a significant impact. His leadership, combined with the strategic roster additions and an unwavering commitment to team success, positions them as formidable contenders.
With Brunson now leading the charge, the Knicks continue to build on their rich history, aiming for sustained success and deeper playoff runs in the seasons to come. Knicks fans and the broader NBA community will undoubtedly be watching closely as Brunson steps into his new role, embodying the leadership qualities that have earned him both respect and admiration on and off the court.