Jalen Brunson showcased a masterclass performance in the playoff series, driving the NY Knicks to the second round of the series. While some believe he has earned the “Best Eastern Player” title through his heroics, others are not so impressed with the New York guard.
According to NBA Insider Chris Broussard, Brunson is not eligible for the “superstar” status yet. On First Things First, the media personality said, “Slow down. Because you have a postseason like this doesn’t mean you’re a superstar.” Justifying his opinion, Broussard added, “If he had been a lottery pick, and come into the league, and in short order, been a star, then a postseason like this may have made you say ‘he’s going to be a superstar.'”
However, that was not the case with Brunson. As he was a second-round pick, Broussard feels his situation is different. He spent four seasons as a role player, so an outstanding post-season won’t make him a star. Referring to Atlanta Hawks’ Trae Young’s superstardom, Broussard concluded, “I need to see more…. Is Trae Young a superstar? I’m not going to fall victim to the MSG pixie dust.”
Although he had a slow start in the first two games, scoring 22 and 23 points, the All-Star guard caught the grip from Game 3 and scored 39 or more points in four consecutive games, averaging 35.5 points in the 6 games against the Philadelphia 76ers in the first round of the playoffs.
Brunson’s exceptional performance might not sway Broussard, but he made an impression on Charles Barkley, who showered the guard with heaps of praise.
Jalen Brunson Garners Praise From Charles Barkley
Jalen Brunson’s remarkable performance not only entertained the New York crowd but also hoop lovers from all corners, one of them being Charles Barkley.
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Referring to him as “one of the best free agent signings of all time” barring LeBron James and Kevin Durant, the Hall of Famer stated, “I guarantee you, the Knicks didn’t think he was gonna be this good when they gave him that contract. He’s amazing, man.”
After showing his heroics in the first round, Brunson moved to the next with his Knicks team, who will face the Indiana Pacers at Madison Square Garden on Monday, where they have a home advantage.
Also Read: Jalen Brunson Enters NBA History Books With 41-Point Performance in Series-Clinching Win
