Knicks' Jalen Brunson talks about the postseason grind and its challenges

Knicks' Jalen Brunson talks about the postseason grind and its challenges originally appeared on The Sporting News

New York Knicks star Jalen Brunson has been open about the mindset required for the team to replicate last season’s success. While the Knicks reached the Eastern Conference Finals before falling short against the Indiana Pacers last season, Brunson stressed that past achievements don’t automatically carry over.

“The best part about our team is the chemistry we’ve built and the relationships we’ve created,” Brunson said. “A lot of people help us on this journey, and to be able to be where we are now, it’s nothing to be satisfied about.”

That chemistry has fueled New York’s steady climb, but Brunson pointed out that satisfaction can be a dangerous thing. He explained that the team must avoid the trap of assuming progress is guaranteed just because of what they accomplished last season.

Jalen Brunson and the Knicks should focus on the process

Jalen Brunson emphasized the importance of starting from zero and embracing the grind again.

“Hopefully, we don’t go into the season thinking we’re just going to jump back into the Eastern Conference Finals,” he said. “We need to go through the process again, continue to get better, and fight to get over that hump.”

During the New York Knicks' postseason run last season, Brunson put the team on his back, averaging 32.4 points, 7.5 assists, and 3.3 rebounds per game. His scoring outbursts carried the Knicks through tough series, cementing his role as their undisputed leader. For Brunson, though, the numbers aren’t enough; what matters is keeping the group focused and hungry.

The Knicks showed last year that they could battle through adversity, but Brunson’s comments make it clear he sees no shortcuts to success. If the Knicks want to take the next step and fight for an NBA Finals berth, they will need the same resilience, discipline, and hunger that powered them into contention.