TORONTO — The NBA has set 65 as the key number to determine the league’s awards and honors this season, and Jalen Brunson officially cleared that hurdle this week.
Brunson played in the Knicks’ 66th of 72 games this season in Wednesday night’s blowout win over the Raptors, meaning he will officially be considered for MVP and All-NBA consideration.
“Obviously, when I’m available, I should be able to play.
That’s always been my mindset. I wouldn’t have considered it any other way,” Brunson, who had 26 points and seven assists, said before the game. “Obviously, we’re experiencing quite a bit of disruption, so our availability is limited.
“I think most, if not all, players on this team have the mindset that if they feel good, they’re going to play as hard as they can.”
When asked if being named All-NBA is one of his goals, the first-time All-Star said, “My list of goals is private. When I get to the bridge, I’ll cross it.”
Brunson ranks fifth in the NBA in points per game (27.4) and 14th in assists (6.4).
Several star players have already missed 17 or more games, which means they won’t be included in the minimum 65 games to be considered.
That list includes Joel Embiid, Donovan Mitchell, Kyrie Irving, Jimmy Butler, Ja Morant, and a two-time All-NBA selection in the past three seasons (one second team, one third team). That includes Brunson’s teammate, Julius Randle.
The All-NBA First Team is expected to consist of Nikola Jokic, Luka Doncic, Giannis Antetokounmpo, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Jayson Tatum.
But Brunson is firmly in the mix for the next five to 10 spots.
Reaching the 65-game barrier also makes Brunson eligible to sign a four-year contract extension worth up to $156.5 million from 2026-2027 this summer.
He is currently in the second season of a four-year, $104 million contract he signed as a free agent in 2022.
“Obviously you want to have security,” Branson said. “But I’m just focused on finishing the season and doing my best to get everyone back healthy and doing my part. That’s what’s on my mind and I’ll think about that later.” intend to.”
Former Raptors forward OG Anunoby worked on his conditioning, but his right elbow injury worsened and required surgery in February, causing him to miss five straight games and the 23rd time in the last 26.
“Just waiting for it to settle down and get a little bit better every day, but be patient and get through it,” Tom Thibodeau said.
Anunoby and Precious Achiuwa received video tributes on the scoreboard in the first half.
Alec Burks (shoulder) missed his second straight game.
