Home » Sports » NBA » New York Knicks

Jalen Brunson being pushed into reverse-Justin Herbert territory was inevitable

The Knicks won the NBA Championship behind an all-time performance from Jalen Brunson. To many, though, the guard still doesn't look the part of a superstar.

By Kris Pursiainen · Daily Knicks

Published: Thursday, 22 October 2026 at 2:07 AM

Key Things to Know

Daily Knicks argues that Jalen Brunson is unfairly overlooked in superstar rankings despite winning the 2026 NBA title.
Brunson won Finals MVP while leading the 2026 playoffs in scoring alongside teammate Karl-Anthony Towns.
Writer Kris Pursiainen criticizes outlets and podcasts for ranking players like Luka Dončić and Cade Cunningham ahead of Brunson.

The Story in 60 Seconds

Daily Knicks writer Kris Pursiainen argues that New York Knicks guard Jalen Brunson remains unfairly undervalued by NBA media rankings despite leading New York to the 2026 NBA Championship. Comparing Brunson to Jalen Hurts, the author contends that critics prefer players who simply look like prototypical superstars over proven winners.

The article highlights that Brunson captured Finals MVP and led the 2026 postseason in scoring, yet remains ranked behind peers like Luka Dončić and Cade Cunningham on several pundit lists. Pursiainen concludes that Brunson's only path to undisputed recognition among the top five players is to guide the Knicks to consecutive titles.

Read the full article on Daily Knicks

Jalen Brunson being pushed into reverse-Justin Herbert territory was inevitable

More New York Knicks News

Never Miss a Sports Update