In its 78 NBA seasons, the New York Knicks has won just two championships. Both the titles came in the early 70s and the team reached the finals for the last time in 1999. Since then, the Knickerbockers have been nothing but a heartbreak. However, the scenario is slightly turning to the brighter side. With talents like Jalen Brunson, OG Anunoby, and others in the team; they are channeling a new energy like never before. But, the clouds of doubt aren’t clearing over coach Tom Thibodeau’s head.

Meanwhile, a blast from the past—RJ Barrett, hits his former squad with a much-needed reality check. Earlier this year, the New York-based NBA veterans exchanged the 24 YO Barrett for Immanuel Quickley of the Toronto Raptors. As a member of the Dinosaurs, RJ Barrett has nothing but appreciation for the Knicks. After spending four seasons, he has grown an inclination for the now-Jalen Brunson’s team. This affection has led the former Knicks star to send a strong message for Brunson and Co.

As a quick tribute to the fans and the NY Knicks, Barrett said a few important words. “People forget we really built something there. When I arrived we weren’t contending…We just kept building.” Back in 2019, when RJ Barrett joined the Knicks, Jalen Brunson was still a Dallas Mavericks power guard. So, the major build-up or development that the team saw, was in the presence of Barrett. Moreover, it took some time for the then-2019 team to make the fans believe in them all over again, Given, the records, the journey to gain the faith was worth the wait. “It’s a tough city but you earn their love. I’m glad we got there for them,” Barrett concluded.

Meanwhile, the head coach of the Knicks is under scrutiny. There can be two possible reasons for this. First, a lot of responsibilities and accountabilities fall on the coach. Moreover, the development of the team also depends on how the coach balances the team. And the progress Jalen Brunson and Co. have shown so far, some credits go to coach Thibs.

Jalen Brunson’s coach Tom Thibodeau has all eyes glued on him ahead of the 2024-25 NBA season

Skepticism regarding Tom Thibodeau’s stay as the head coach of the Knicks is persistent. Since he arrived in 2020, the team has progressed considerably. But, given the sad past, fans aren’t ready to breathe with ease. It is believed that coach Thibs played a key role in bringing Jalen Brunson to his team. Thibs was also responsible for exchanging RJ Barrett for some of the players from the north of the borders. Moreover, maintaining the rituals of the Knicks, in the last season too, the team couldn’t make it to the finals.

However, when backlash and demands for Thibs’ resignation were passively fuming, Brunson took his coach’s side. “I think Thibs has the same mindset we do as a team. Thibs is the reason why we have that mindset,” Bruson said. Most importantly, the Knicks have been willing to give players to Tom Thibodeaux who play and think in the Tom Thibodeau style. And as Brian Windhorst rightfully pointed out: “It’s so remarkable because it was the inverse of what the Knicks have chased for years.” With Thibs’ entry, the old tactics of changing players, coaches, styles, failed strategies, and abandoning the chase have become a distant memory.

At the same time, the new players of the team which also includes Jalen Brunson will be playing under contract. With some changes in the rules, the team is somewhat willing to develop around Brunson’s skills. Moreover, the 28YO has settled for a $150 million extension, which was “Way below his value,” remarks Brian Windhorst. This also shows that Jalen is prioritizing the team and achievements slightly more than the monetary aspects of the game.

With just a month left before the new season begins, the Knicks squad would be busy with their game plans. It will be of utmost importance to weigh in on enhancing performance and chasing more wins. Surely, under the leadership of Jalen Brunson, the New York Knicks could relive their days of glory. And who knows, maybe this season could be the turning point?