Dallas Mavs' Jason Kidd: 'Never Discount' New York Knicks Jalen Brunson's Future Hall of Fame Chances
PORTLAND — Former Dallas Mavericks star Jalen Brunson continues to produce big performances for the New York Knicks, setting a new career with 50 points against the Phoenix Suns on Friday.
Brunson's performance commanded high praise from rival superstar Kevin Durant described the Knicks star as "a Hall of Fame player if he keeps it up."
Jason Kidd, who is not only a Hall of Fame point guard but was Brunson's head coach during his four seasons with the Dallas Mavericks, expressed how he would "never discount" what Brunson can achieve in his career. The way Brunson plays with a chip on his shoulder and does what it takes to win earned Kidd's praises.
"I would never discount Jalen," Kidd said of Brunson. "He has a chip on his shoulder. He understands how to play the game. He has a big basketball IQ. To see how he shot the ball last night, we've seen that as a Mav, and then to have 50 points to help his team win. That's what he's all about. He's trying to help his team. So, to be a Hall of Famer, if he continues to put up numbers like that, yes, for sure."
Brunson has continued to grow in his career since departing the Mavs to sign a four-year, $104 million contract with the Knicks in the summer of 2022. In 24 games, the Villanova product has averaged 25.6 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 5.9 assists this season, reaching career-high marks in scoring for a fifth consecutive campaign.
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Stepping into the lead initiator role, Kidd praised how Brunson handled his more prominent opportunity with the Knicks. Not afraid to step up in big moments just like during his time in Dallas, Brunson continues to deliver big performances in what could result in his first All-Star nod this season.
"I think just his leadership," Kidd said of Brunson. "He enjoys being the leader. He wants to be a leader. He works extremely hard on his game. He's not afraid of the moment, and those would be what you can see us as he's gotten over there. He's thriving in that situation."
The impact Brunson has provided despite playing through the pressures associated with being the face of the Knicks is not overlooked by Kidd. Whether it's the heightened expectations or the media criticism that comes with the job, Brunson continues to deliver.
"It's not easy to thrive in New York with the media or whoever; there's a lot of doubters, so he's not afraid of that," Kidd said. "I think he loves that situation. So, I'm happy that he's playing well."
The next chance the Mavs will get to face off against Brunson is on Jan. 11, which would mark Brunson's first time playing at American Airlines Center since departing from Dallas.
