CLEVELAND — Four years later, nobody is questioning that $104 million contract the Knicks gave to Jalen Brunson.
Looking back now, it was a bargain.
Brunson has the Larry Bird Trophy, given to the MVP of the Eastern Conference finals, as proof.
In his fourth postseason as a Knick, Brunson led the franchise back to the NBA Finals for the first time in 27 years, capped by their emphatic series sweep of the Cavaliers on Monday night.
Getty Images“The belief that the organization has in me has been amazing, and something I don’t take for granted, and something not a lot of people get the opportunity to do,” Brunson said after notching 15 points and five assists in the 130-93 clincher over the Cavaliers in Game 4. “So I’m very thankful. It’s an honor to be here in this city for this organization with my teammates.”
Brunson set the tone in the series opener, exploding for 38 points and rallying the Knicks from a 22-point fourth-quarter deficit. Overall, he averaged 25.5 points and 7.8 assists in the sweep.
Brunson has changed so much for the Knicks during a short period. In the 21 years before his arrival, they won just a single playoff series. Since his arrival, they have claimed seven and will pursue their first championship since 1973 starting next week, against either the Spurs or Thunder.
Before the game, coach Mike Brown was asked if Brunson’s leadership reminds him of anyone he had coached, and he didn’t hesitate: Tim Duncan and Stephen Curry.
Knicks guard Jalen Brunson (11) reacts in the third quarter against the Cleveland Cavaliers. Ken Blaze-Imagn ImagesKnicks Merch Shop
This premium commemorative plaque features the iconic front cover of the New York Post from the Knicks’ historic 2026 NBA Finals victory.
The walls of any true fan require this plaque of our back cover from June 14, 2026 featuring Brunson and the boys celebrating their win.
The “Our Team, Our Title” wrap from our June 15, 2026 print edition set behind acrylic plexiglass and framed in black ayous wood.
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OMG, indeed! This adjustable hat says what we were all thinking during this intense championship run.
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Knicker Bonkers chronicles the historic championship run that united NYC. Featuring NY Post analysis and vivid photos, relive the magic of MSG.
“The aura that those guys have, the quiet strength that they have, is unbelievable,” Brown said.
High praise for the Knicks captain — praise he has earned since he joined the franchise four years ago this summer.
