Former Knicks Player Wants More From Current Star

Published in Travel and Leisure on Monday, August 4th 2025 at 7:12 GMT by Sports Illustrated
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Jalen Brunson has only been on the New York Knicks for three seasons, but he's already given more to the franchise than almost anyone who's suited up in the blu

Former Knicks Guard Iman Shumpert Calls for Jalen Brunson to Elevate His Game Even Further

In the ever-evolving landscape of the NBA, where stars rise and legacies are forged through consistent excellence, former New York Knicks guard Iman Shumpert has issued a compelling challenge to the team's current cornerstone, Jalen Brunson. Shumpert, known for his defensive tenacity and championship pedigree during his playing days, recently shared his thoughts on Brunson during an appearance on a popular basketball podcast. His comments, laced with admiration yet underscored by a desire for more, highlight the high expectations placed on Brunson as he leads the Knicks into what could be a pivotal era for the franchise.

Shumpert, who spent parts of four seasons with the Knicks from 2011 to 2015, has always been vocal about the game he loves. A key contributor to the Cleveland Cavaliers' 2016 NBA Championship run alongside LeBron James, Shumpert brings a unique perspective shaped by high-stakes playoff battles and the grind of professional basketball. Now retired and transitioning into media and analysis roles, he doesn't shy away from offering candid insights. In this instance, his focus turned to Brunson, the Knicks' All-Star point guard who has rapidly ascended to stardom since signing with New York in 2022.

At the heart of Shumpert's commentary is a blend of praise and constructive criticism. He lauds Brunson for his poise, scoring ability, and leadership, acknowledging how the former Villanova standout has transformed the Knicks from a middling team into a legitimate Eastern Conference contender. Brunson, after all, has been the driving force behind New York's resurgence, averaging impressive numbers and earning his first All-Star nod last season. Shumpert recognizes this, noting that Brunson's crafty footwork, mid-range mastery, and ability to perform under pressure remind him of some of the greats he's played with and against. "Jalen's got that dog in him," Shumpert reportedly said, emphasizing Brunson's competitive fire and his knack for stepping up in big moments.

However, Shumpert isn't content with mere accolades. He wants more from Brunson—specifically, a more dominant, takeover mentality that could propel the Knicks deeper into the postseason. Drawing from his own experiences, Shumpert compared Brunson's potential to that of legendary figures like Kobe Bryant, suggesting that while Brunson has the tools to be an elite scorer and leader, he needs to embrace a more aggressive, "killer" instinct. "I love what he's doing, but I want to see him demand the ball more, take over games from start to finish," Shumpert elaborated. He pointed out instances where Brunson, despite his efficiency, sometimes defers to teammates or settles for facilitating rather than asserting himself as the alpha on the court. In Shumpert's view, this shift could be the key to unlocking the Knicks' full potential, especially in a league where superstars like Giannis Antetokounmpo and Joel Embiid dominate with unrelenting force.

This call to action from Shumpert comes at a fascinating juncture for the Knicks. Under head coach Tom Thibodeau, the team has built a gritty, defense-oriented identity that complements Brunson's offensive prowess. The addition of players like OG Anunoby and the continued development of young talents such as RJ Barrett (now traded) and others have bolstered the roster, but the Knicks have yet to break through to the NBA Finals in decades. Brunson, who signed a four-year, $104 million deal with New York after leaving the Dallas Mavericks, has shouldered much of the load. His performance in the playoffs, where he led the Knicks to the second round last year, showcased his ability to rise to the occasion. Yet, Shumpert argues that to truly contend for a championship, Brunson must evolve from a very good player into an unstoppable force—one who not only scores but also demoralizes opponents with his will to win.

Expanding on this, Shumpert delved into the mental aspects of the game. He recalled his time guarding elite scorers and how the best ones, like Bryant or James, imposed their dominance psychologically as much as physically. "It's not just about the points; it's about making the other team feel like they can't stop you," he explained. For Brunson, this could mean refining his already lethal mid-range game, improving his three-point shooting consistency, and perhaps even adding more explosiveness to his drives. Shumpert also touched on the importance of off-court preparation, urging Brunson to study film obsessively and build the kind of endurance that allows for 40-minute masterpieces in crucial games.

The former Knick didn't stop at individual advice; he contextualized it within the broader narrative of New York's basketball history. The Knicks, with their passionate fanbase and storied Madison Square Garden, have long yearned for a hero to end the championship drought that dates back to 1973. Players like Patrick Ewing and Carmelo Anthony came close but fell short. Shumpert sees Brunson as the latest in this lineage, but with a modern twist—his undersized frame (6'2") belies a giant's heart, much like Allen Iverson or Chris Paul. Yet, to etch his name among the immortals, Shumpert believes Brunson must push beyond his current limits. "He's already a star, but to be legendary in New York, you gotta want more—more shots, more responsibility, more everything," Shumpert asserted.

Reactions to Shumpert's comments have been mixed but largely positive within Knicks circles. Fans appreciate the endorsement from a former player who understands the city's intensity, while analysts see it as a motivational spark for Brunson ahead of the new season. Brunson himself has not publicly responded, but his track record suggests he's the type to internalize such feedback. Known for his work ethic—honed during his college days at Villanova, where he won two national championships—Brunson has consistently improved year over year. From a solid role player in Dallas to the Knicks' franchise player, his trajectory is upward, and Shumpert's words could serve as fuel for further growth.

Looking ahead, the Knicks are poised for another competitive campaign. With Brunson at the helm, supported by Julius Randle and a revamped supporting cast, the team aims to challenge powerhouses like the Boston Celtics and Milwaukee Bucks. Shumpert's challenge adds an intriguing layer to this narrative: Can Brunson heed the call and become the transcendent talent that leads New York to glory? If he does, it could redefine his career and revitalize a franchise hungry for success.

In essence, Shumpert's message is one of tough love from a veteran who knows what it takes to win at the highest level. It's not a knock on Brunson's abilities but a rallying cry for greatness. As the NBA season approaches, all eyes will be on Brunson to see if he answers the bell, demanding more from himself and, in turn, elevating the Knicks to new heights. This dialogue between past and present Knicks underscores the enduring passion for basketball in New York, where expectations are as high as the skyscrapers, and only the bold thrive.

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Former Knicks Player Wants More From Current Star

Former Knicks Guard Iman Shumpert Calls for Jalen Brunson to Elevate His Game Even Further