“They haven’t won sh**!” Shaquille O’Neal dismisses Knicks winning championship in next season
Shaquille O'Neal changed his opinion about Jalen Brunson and was impressed by his dominant season.
Shaquille O'Neal The Big Podcast
The New York Knicks have been one of the weaker teams in the NBA for the past few years. From bad management decisions to poor trades, the Knicks have done it all. However, the last season marked a significant change in the Knicks. They were one of the most successful teams in the Eastern Conference this season. Even after injuries to many stars, they managed to make it to the Eastern Conference semifinals with Jalen Brunson leading the charge.
The Knicks management made a great move this off-season by acquiring Mikal Bridges from the Brooklyn Nets. Despite this, NBA legend Shaquille O’Neal feels the Knicks are not the championship favorites in the coming season. Shaq doesn’t consider the Knicks contenders even after having a great squad with Jalen Brunson, and Julius Randle with the addition of Mikal Bridges.
They haven't won sh*t. Young fella can play, I was wrong about him, he’s impressed. But, they’re nowhere close to winning the championship. They’re going to win some games and do this, but no.Shaquille O’Neal on The Big Podcast
O’Neal further stated that Brunson had an impressive last season with the Knicks. He even changed his opinion about Brunson and was impressed by his dominant season. Brunson averaged 28.7 points, 3.6 rebounds and 6.7 assists in the 2023-24 season.
Brunson has proved to be a great addition for the Knicks. New York might be a serious contender in the east with teams like Boston Celtics and Philadelphia Sixers also getting stronger. The lineup for the Knicks for the next season will be a bit confusing as Bridges as some players play the same forward position.
Jalen Brunson took a pay cut for the signing of Mikal Bridges
Jalen Brunson has proved to be a superstar this season. He gave his all for the New York Knicks but failed to make it out of the Eastern Conference semifinals. In the off-season, the Knicks management made a big signing by acquiring Mikal Bridges.
Brunson also played a big part in the trade for Bridges. He proved to be a team-first player as he could have easily signed a five-year, $269 million contract but agreed to a more team-friendly contract of a four-year, $156 million deal. By taking $113 million less, it enabled the Knicks to acquire Bridges.
It’s a rare sight in the recent NBA where many players are seen chasing the big bag, whereas Brunson is putting the team first. Brunson can truly go down as one of the best Knicks players in recent history.
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Ajinkya Aswale
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