Stephen A. Smith , one of the most prominent and outspoken voices in sports media, has recently declared New York Knicks star Jalen Brunson as the best player remaining in the 2025 NBA Playoffs. Smith’s bold proclamation comes as the Knicks prepare for a highly anticipated Eastern Conference Finals showdown against the Indiana Pacers, a matchup that has reignited the storied rivalry between the two franchises.
Stephen A. Smith’s support for Jalen Brunson is rooted in the guard’s extraordinary postseason performance. Averaging 28.8 points, 3.9 rebounds, and 7.7 assists per game on efficient shooting splits, Brunson has not only propelled the Knicks to their first Eastern Conference Finals since 2000 but has also emerged as the team’s undisputed leader. What truly sets Brunson apart, according to Smith and other analysts, is his ability to deliver in clutch situations. He leads all players in clutch points this postseason, consistently making critical plays when the stakes are highest.
Stephen A. Smith’s endorsement of Brunson as the playoffs’ premier talent is not without competition. Other stars, such as Tyrese Haliburton of the Pacers, have also shined during this postseason run. However, Smith remains adamant that while Haliburton is talented and capable of finishing games, he has yet to reach the superstar status that Brunson now commands. “Brunson is a superstar, not Haliburton. He hasn’t reached that level yet... but he isn’t a superstar,” Smith asserted, drawing a clear line between the two Eastern Conference standouts.
Jalen Brunson’s impact has not gone unnoticed by NBA legends either. Paul Pierce recently lauded him as the most consistent performer in the 2025 playoffs, even ranking him above established names like Nikola Jokić and Anthony Edwards. This widespread recognition underscores Brunson’s rapid ascent from a reliable contributor to the linchpin of a championship-contending team.
Also read: San Antonio Spurs’ Victor Wembanyama Showcases Major Muscle Gains Ahead of Pivotal NBA Season
As the Knicks chase their first NBA title in decades, Stephen A. Smith’s declaration has only intensified the spotlight on Jalen Brunson. His leadership, scoring prowess, and clutch gene have not only revived the hopes of Knicks fans but have also positioned him as the face of a new era in the NBA. With the playoffs reaching their climax, all eyes will be on Jalen Brunson to see if he can continue to justify Stephen A. Smith’s faith and lead New York to basketball glory.
Stephen A. Smith’s support for Jalen Brunson is rooted in the guard’s extraordinary postseason performance. Averaging 28.8 points, 3.9 rebounds, and 7.7 assists per game on efficient shooting splits, Brunson has not only propelled the Knicks to their first Eastern Conference Finals since 2000 but has also emerged as the team’s undisputed leader. What truly sets Brunson apart, according to Smith and other analysts, is his ability to deliver in clutch situations. He leads all players in clutch points this postseason, consistently making critical plays when the stakes are highest.
Stephen A. Smith says Jalen Brunson is a superstar, but Tyrese Haliburton is not
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) May 19, 2025
“[Hali] isn't asked to do as much to carry [the Pacers'] offense as Brunson does.”
(🎥 @FirstTake / h/t @ClutchPoints )
pic.twitter.com/XLFixEqofD
Stephen A. Smith’s endorsement of Brunson as the playoffs’ premier talent is not without competition. Other stars, such as Tyrese Haliburton of the Pacers, have also shined during this postseason run. However, Smith remains adamant that while Haliburton is talented and capable of finishing games, he has yet to reach the superstar status that Brunson now commands. “Brunson is a superstar, not Haliburton. He hasn’t reached that level yet... but he isn’t a superstar,” Smith asserted, drawing a clear line between the two Eastern Conference standouts.
Jalen Brunson’s impact has not gone unnoticed by NBA legends either. Paul Pierce recently lauded him as the most consistent performer in the 2025 playoffs, even ranking him above established names like Nikola Jokić and Anthony Edwards. This widespread recognition underscores Brunson’s rapid ascent from a reliable contributor to the linchpin of a championship-contending team.
Also read: San Antonio Spurs’ Victor Wembanyama Showcases Major Muscle Gains Ahead of Pivotal NBA Season
As the Knicks chase their first NBA title in decades, Stephen A. Smith’s declaration has only intensified the spotlight on Jalen Brunson. His leadership, scoring prowess, and clutch gene have not only revived the hopes of Knicks fans but have also positioned him as the face of a new era in the NBA. With the playoffs reaching their climax, all eyes will be on Jalen Brunson to see if he can continue to justify Stephen A. Smith’s faith and lead New York to basketball glory.
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