Charles Oakley’s bold claim that Jalen Brunson is the greatest Knick since Walt Frazier, surpassing even legends like Patrick Ewing, has sparked controversy and disbelief, particularly among Knicks faithful and former players like Mark Jackson.
“We love Oak… but Oak made Jalen Brunson’s greatest New York Knicks basketball player since Clyde Frazier. Time out. Are you kidding me? I love you Oak, but what are we doing? Let me introduce you to the greatest, not just since Clyde Frazier, the greatest New York Knicks basketball player of all time.”
“That includes everybody. You include everybody that ever played in the blue and orange and you put them on the draft board, the number one pick is Patrick Ewing.”
Mark Jackson "We love Oak…but Oak [said] Jalen Brunson's greatest Knick since Clyde…You kidding?…Let me introduce you to the greatest…Knick of ALL time…Patrick Ewing…Nothing against Jalen"
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Patrick Ewing "I love Oak…Jalen great…try not to get involved"
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Jax "It's you" pic.twitter.com/e8ii7tX4mg
— New York Basketball (@NBA_NewYork) May 4, 2024
Oakley’s assertion came after the Knicks’ recent playoff successes led by Brunson, who has undeniably been a pivotal figure in the team’s resurgence. However, to suggest that Brunson has already surpassed the likes of Ewing, one of the greatest players in Knicks history, is a stretch.
Mark Jackson, in response to Oakley’s statement, expressed his disbelief on his show, emphasizing Ewing’s unparalleled impact on the franchise. Jackson reminded Oakley and listeners alike that Ewing’s legacy as a Knick is unmatched, pointing out Ewing’s 15-year tenure with the team and his numerous accolades, including 11 All-Star selections and leading the franchise in multiple statistical categories.
Ewing’s arrival transformed the Knicks, leading them to multiple playoff appearances and deep postseason runs throughout the 1990s. Despite falling short of an NBA title, Ewing’s contributions to the Knicks cannot be overstated, cementing his status as an all-time great in the franchise’s history.
While Jalen Brunson’s impact on the Knicks has been significant and his potential is promising, it’s premature to place him above a player of Ewing’s caliber. Ewing’s longevity, consistency, and statistical dominance over his tenure with the Knicks set him apart and solidified his place as the greatest Knick of all time.
Ultimately, Oakley’s assertion may be attributed to recency bias and the excitement surrounding Brunson’s performance. However, when considering the full scope of Knick’s history and the impact of players like Ewing, it becomes clear that this trade doesn’t make sense at any level. Ewing’s legacy remains unmatched, and it’s unlikely that Brunson, despite his contributions, will surpass it anytime soon.
Jalen Brunson’s First Two Years As A Knicks Star Has Been Great
Jalen Brunson’s impact on the New York Knicks in his first two years with the team has been nothing short of remarkable. Emerging as a star player, Brunson has not only transformed the Knicks into a legitimate playoff contender but has also revitalized the hopes and dreams of Knicks fans who have endured years of disappointment.
Brunson’s impressive statistics speak volumes about his impact on the court. Averaging 28.7 points, 3.6 rebounds, and 6.7 assists per game while shooting efficiently from both the field and beyond the arc, he has been instrumental in leading the Knicks to a 50-win season and securing the second seed in the Eastern Conference.
However, Brunson’s significance goes beyond his individual numbers. In just two years, he has guided the Knicks to the conference semifinals, showcasing his ability to elevate his team’s performance on the biggest stage. With his leadership and skill, Brunson has instilled a newfound sense of hope and optimism among Knicks fans, who have long awaited a return to relevance for their beloved franchise.
The story of Jalen Brunson’s journey to the Knicks adds an extra layer of significance to his success. As the son of former Knicks player Rick Brunson, Jalen grew up around the team, witnessing firsthand the passion and dedication required to succeed in New York. Now, as the star player for the Knicks, he is carrying on his family’s legacy while making a name for himself as one of the premier talents in the NBA.
Brunson’s impact extends beyond the basketball court, as he embodies the resilience and determination of a true New Yorker. His work ethic and commitment to excellence serve as an inspiration to his teammates and fans alike, driving the Knicks toward their ultimate goal of an NBA championship.
In just two years, Jalen Brunson has become synonymous with hope for Knicks fans everywhere. His performance on the court, coupled with his unwavering dedication to the team, has solidified his place as a true Knicks star. As he continues to lead the franchise to new heights, the future looks brighter than ever for the New York Knicks and their passionate fan base.
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