CLEVELAND — Jalen Brunson’s Response

When asked about his thoughts on reaching the Finals with the Knicks, Jalen Brunson had a succinct reply: “Since then, I’ve signed,” he stated on Sunday.

This year, it’s no longer just a hope; it’s a requirement. The Knicks, even after reaching the Conference Finals, were expected to push further. Following the firing of Tom Thibodeau, owner James Dolan made it clear in January that reaching the Finals was “an absolute must.” A few weeks earlier, the Knicks had even set the tone by forgoing a celebration of winning the NBA Cup, opting instead for a title that feels more significant.

But this journey is still truly remarkable. The Knicks are experiencing a groundbreaking season.

A win in Game 4 of the Eastern Conference Finals on Monday would clinch the series, extending their impressive winning streak to 11 games.

It’s a pivotal moment. Coach Mike Brown emphasized on Sunday the importance of staying present. “We can’t get ahead of ourselves,” he noted. When teams start thinking too far ahead, things tend to go awry. “It all boils down to the next game, the next possession,” he elaborated, trying to minimize distractions.

Yet, when looking at the Knicks from the outside, one can’t help but speculate about their potential. The prospect of reaching the Finals for the first time since 1999 is enticing, and it would surely set off a wave of excitement in New York City. As they continue to break records, defeating teams from the West for the championship feels increasingly attainable.

They’re playing at a high level, making dreams seem feasible.

“I don’t want to believe we’re at our peak yet,” Brunson remarked. “There’s still room for improvement. Our goal, as I’ve mentioned all year, is to get better every single day, even in the playoffs. We still have lessons to learn and opportunities to grow.” Looking back at their history and the gap since their last Finals appearance isn’t on his radar. “It just doesn’t cross my mind,” Brunson added.

The topic of their past struggles often comes up, but the current team doesn’t seem to dwell on it. “I don’t think we’re defined by it,” OG Anunoby said Sunday. “Our only aim is to win every game, regardless of how long it’s been, whether six years or even 20.”

A Finals trip, a second consecutive sweep, a winning streak, and a place in Knicks history—these are all at their fingertips come Monday.

For the team, it’s simply Game 4.

“No matter the stakes, it’s our chance to come together, improve from the last game, and keep learning,” Brunson concluded. “We’re aiming to be the best version of ourselves.”