The New York Knicks have reached the NBA Finals for the first time in 25 years, a milestone built on years of measured roster moves and a pivotal free-agent signing in 2022.
Team executives began reshaping the franchise when they traded Kristaps Porziņģis, a deal that created future financial flexibility and draft capital. That groundwork proved critical when the front office opted against surrendering major assets for guard Jalen Brunson and instead signed him outright two summers ago.
Brunson’s arrival transformed New York’s trajectory. Since adding the 6-foot-2 playmaker, the Knicks have continued to fortify the lineup with Karl-Anthony Towns, Mikal Bridges, OG Anunoby and Josh Hart. The revamped group swept the Cleveland Cavaliers in the Eastern Conference Finals, securing the franchise’s first conference crown since 1999.
Brunson now stands four victories from historic company. According to ESPN, only Isiah Thomas and Stephen Curry have been the primary stars of championship teams while standing 6-foot-2 or shorter. A Finals win would place Brunson alongside that exclusive duo—an outcome few predicted when his contract was widely labeled an overpay three years ago.
Source: Hoops Wire
