1: Jalen Brunson
After Josh Hart was drafted in 2017, Jalen Brunson and Donte DiVincenzo won another title at Villanova in 2018. The two roomed together in college and in a podcast appearance a couple of months ago, DiVincenzo said that the two are best friends. It should go without saying why Brunson will benefit from the Knicks signing the 2018 Final Four Most Valuable Player.
Part of the reason why Hart was able to fit so seamlessly into New York’s rotation was because of the chemistry that had already been established with Brunson. DiVincenzo should have a similar, if not stronger, effect.
Brunson had to take matters into his own hands in the playoffs when his teammates were failing to knock down shots. He was the only one that could get something going on offense. Every player has off nights, including DiVincenzo, but being able to find an open DiVincenzo on the wing will help to take the offensive pressure off the point guard’s shoulders. There won’t be a need for Brunson to be double or triple-teamed when he’s looking to attack the rim.
The Knicks didn’t make signing DiVincenzo their priority because he’s another close friend of Brunson’s, but because he’s a tough-nosed player that will make the team better. DiVincenzo earned his contract, but yes, Brunson will benefit on and off the court because of his presence.
9 Players the New York Knicks gave up on way too soon
The New York Knicks gave up on these nine players way too soon, chasing win-now options and living to regret it in every case.