The New York Knicks are gearing up for a strong 2025-26 season, and it’s not hyperbole to say that expectations are very high for the team. Last season, of course, they almost went all the way, with almost being the operative word. Now, they have a new head coach in Mike Brown, and he’s expected to bring the Knicks even more success than they’ve experienced the past few years.
One of the brightest spots for the Knicks is Jalen Brunson, who has held the team up even during tough games. It would be crazy talk to take Brunson out of the mix, but one NBA expert thinks that a major change has to happen with Brunson if the Knicks are going to thrive during the 2025-26 run.
Brunson is joined by other heavyweights on the Knicks’ roster, such as Mikal Bridges and Karl-Anthony Towns. But, he’s often had the weight of the Knicks world on his shoulders when it comes to pulling off wins. That might have to change if the Knicks want to go all the way.
Jalen Brunson and the Knicks in the 2025-26 Season
In a clip posted by New York Basketball on Saturday, Aug. 2, NBA analyst and former Knicks player Iman Shumpert gave his thoughts on how the team is using Brunson and how to get the most out of him.
“As much as we love Jalen Brunson I think his usage has to go down little bit for (the other tar players) to flourish…” he said. “You still want him to be who he is–have to be ball dominant sometimes… Pick your spots… fourth quarters… Throughout game share the sugar little bit more.”
So, he thinks that Brunson should remain the team’s leader but step back just a little bit. It makes sense, because by the time the playoffs rolled around last season, Brunson was probably exhausted. By giving the others more responsibility, hopefully it will leave Brunson more refreshed for another deep playoff run.
Jalen Brunson of the New York Knicks Gives Back
Brunson also gives back. He heads up his own non-profit organization, Second Round Foundation, which “plants seeds to create equity for young people through education, sport and community,” according to a statement from the group. “Our vision is to empower young people to determine their own success, regardless of background or circumstance,” they add.
Last month, Brunson was in the kitchen at Dream Charter High School in the Bronx and cooked with students, talked to them about life and announced a donation going towards their culinary education. So, it was his way of giving back to the community that loves him so much.
Brunson also pledged more than $300,000 to support the school’s Scratch Food Kitchen program, which gives healthy, from-scratch meals to students around the year and makes educational opportunities in the industry. “Not having to worry about food or your next meal is a luxury everyone needs,” Brunson said during his visit, according to a video clip from CBS News. “For me, I just do the best I can to help.”
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