Jalen Brunson was instrumental in the New York Knicks winning their initial NBA championship since 1973, contributing significantly through multiple avenues.
On Saturday evening, Brunson delivered a 45-point performance during the Knicks’ decisive Game 5 win against the San Antonio Spurs. Throughout the championship series, the All-Star guard maintained an impressive average of 32.6 points per game, securing the Finals MVP award as New York triumphed 4-1.
Beyond his on-court performance, Brunson’s influence also reached off the playing surface.
In 2022, Brunson committed to a four-year, $156.5 million contract extension with the Knicks, which involved a substantial reduction in his potential earnings. He consciously opted not to pursue a possible $269 million maximum agreement, thereby foregoing around $113 million and granting the team greater flexibility with their salary cap.
SAN ANTONIO, TEXAS – JUNE 13: Jalen Brunson #11 of the New York Knicks reacts during the fourth quarter against the San Antonio Spurs in Game Five of the 2026 NBA Finals at Frost Bank Center on June 13, 2026 in San Antonio, Texas. (Photo by Gregory Shamus/Getty Images)
Following Game 5, in a conversation with Malika Andrews of ESPN, Brunson was posed the question of whether sacrificing a portion of his potential earnings had proven worthwhile.
“Absolutely, it was entirely worthwhile,” Brunson responded.
Brunson further remarked, “Even if we had fallen short of this accomplishment, the opportunity to make that sacrifice, persevere, and embark on the quest to attain it would have still been valuable. However, this outcome undeniably serves as the ultimate bonus.”
For the 2027-28 season, Brunson is slated to receive a salary of $40.5 million. Additionally, he possesses a player option for the 2028-29 season, valued at $43.3 million.
The 45 points achieved by Brunson in Game 5 represents the highest scoring total for any player in the New York Knicks’ NBA Finals history, exceeding the prior record of 38 points established by Willis Reed back in 1970.
