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3 Knicks players that will benefit most from Jalen Brunson free agency signing

By Jordanna Clark

DALLAS, TEXAS - APRIL 10: Jalen Brunson #13 of the Dallas Mavericks dribbles up court in the game against the San Antonio Spurs at American Airlines Center on April 10, 2022 in Dallas, Texas. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Tim Heitman/Getty Images)
DALLAS, TEXAS - APRIL 10: Jalen Brunson #13 of the Dallas Mavericks dribbles up court in the game against the San Antonio Spurs at American Airlines Center on April 10, 2022 in Dallas, Texas. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Tim Heitman/Getty Images) /
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The New York Knicks went into free agency with a plan, and that plan was made official last night at 9:30 after Jalen Brunson agreed to a four-year, $104 million contract (with a player option in the final season). He’ll be the 47th highest-paid player per annual salary in 2022-23.

New York’s point guard void is filled. The days of watching Alec Burks at point are long gone. The Knicks are looking to build on their young core, and at the age of 25, Brunson fits that mold. An added bonus is that he’s far from being at his best.

It’s time to think forward to 2022-23. Based on what New York’s roster is right now, how will Brunson fit? Spoiler alert: He’ll be a better fit than you think.

On that topic, let’s explore which 3 players will benefit the most from Brunson’s free agency signing.

3 Knicks players who will profit from Jalen Brunson’s free agency signing

3: RJ Barrett

For the first time since being drafted in 2019, RJ Barrett won’t have to worry about operating as New York’s primary ball handler. It’ll be a welcome change to have someone who actually does well at facilitating an offense.

With Brunson attacking the rim, which is his specialty, the defense will be drawn in and will open up looks for players like Barrett, who will be able to cut into the lane for a dish from Brunson, or he can remain around the perimeter. Admittedly, Barrett needs to improve his efficiency. In catch and shoot opportunities in 2021-22, he had a 54.1% EFG.

It should take a little bit for Brunson and Barrett to learn to share the floor, but that’s expected. Once the two of them get used to each other’s game and can form a type of chemistry, they’re going to be a duo worth watching.

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