Jalen Brunson, the Knicks’ first captain in six years

The New York Knicks have named Jalen Brunson team captain, marking the team’s first captaincy since 2018.

After making a significant impact following his transfer in 2022, Brunson was announced Tuesday as the team’s 36th captain. The role had been vacant since Lance Thomas’ tenure during the 2018-19 season.

Knicks president Leon Rose praised Brunson for his leadership skills. “Jalen is a natural leader who I believe will represent our team, our fans and New York City with the dedication and integrity he has demonstrated since his first day with us,” Rose said.

In his first two seasons with the Knicks, Brunson was instrumental in the team’s advancement to the second round of the Eastern Conference playoffs. Last season, he averaged 28.7 points per game, secured his first All-Star selection and was a top-five finisher in the NBA MVP race.

Brunson also joins the ranks of a handful of second-round draft picks who have captained the Knicks, a list that includes legendary center Willis Reed, also known as “The Captain.”

This leadership change comes as the Knicks continue to build on their recent playoff success, counting on Brunson to lead the team into the future.