The New York Knicks advanced to the second round of the Eastern Conference playoffs, behind the Jaren Branson clutch shot, to end the series against the Pistons.
Jalen Brunson won the 2024-25 Clutch Player of the Year Award. He stands out in the New York Knicks, especially in clutch situations. All members of the Knicks organization trusted him with the ball in his hand, and that trust was rewarded in Game 6 of the series against the piston.
Branson took it to himself to beat elite defender Aussard Thompson for the winner of that game. He created a separation from Thompson and stood up for the three who won the series. Jalen’s Clutch Shot solidified the Knicks’ place in the second round.
Since signing the Knicks in 2022, Jalen Brunson has grown into a superstar. He has promised to be the number one guy, so he is the biggest basketball star in the Big Apple. That includes taking big shots and accepting the responsibility of being a star player.
Knicks head coach Tom Thibodeau has always been a big player with confidence in Branson. In Game 6 against the Pistons, there were no issues creating plays that maximized Branson’s skill set. He worked his star and Jalen Branson delivered in three wins in his series.
“Jalen’s shot, what can you say? Timely. He’s at his best when he needs his best. He did it all year round,” Thibodeau said shortly after Game 6.
“That’s what makes him special. Looking at the contributions that Kat made, 15 rebounds, and the many tough plays he made, Mikal and OG were incredible.
New York has a good roster full of solid players. Karl Anthony Town is also a star-level player, but Jaren Branson is a team superstar. He’s a go-to guy and they’ll take all the big shots whenever he needs him, but he also involves others.
The Knicks may have a solid group of players, but Branson will be a barometer. He is one of the best the league has to offer, and his stardom is the main reason why the Knicks keep it away in the playoffs.
With the current run in the 2025 postseason, they are set to face the defending champions. The Celtics are ready to defend the crown. This would be difficult for Branson as he has to counter a tremendous defense. Jrue Holiday will become his main defender.
Fans trust them to play the right game as Branson continues to be heroic. It’ll be a tough series, but New York can maximise Jalen’s skill set and double down on the Knicks’ beliefs to pull away the upset.