Is Jalen Brunson Comparable to Derek Jeter?

Mike Francesa thinks the Knicks player displayed qualities reminiscent of Derek Jeter during the 2026 NBA Finals.

“What he did, that was Jeter,” Francesa said on “Shine Time,” a show where he spoke with The Post’s Adam Shen. “Jeter never won MVP. He wasn’t always the most dominant player, but he consistently brought his A-game in crucial moments.”

Brunson has been averaging 26.6 points this postseason, also contributing 6.3 assists, 2.9 rebounds, and 1.1 steals per game.

Interestingly, his scoring has only increased by 0.6 points per game in the playoffs, yet he seems to perform at critical times in each match.

For instance, during a remarkable comeback against the Cavaliers in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Finals, Brunson scored 15 consecutive points.

A similar performance occurred in Game 1 of the NBA Finals against the Spurs. There, he led the charge again, netting 13 points in the fourth quarter.

Francesa praised Brunson’s late-game scoring ability, describing it as “incredible.” He remarked, “Brunson has the most exceptional footwork of anyone I’ve ever seen in the NBA, aside from Hakeem Olajuwon.”

Francesa also pointed out that Brunson embodies Jeter’s leadership qualities.

Brunson maintained $113 million in hand when he signed a four-year, $156.5 million extension with the Knicks back in July 2024, which allows him the option for a potential five-year, $269 million extension the following year.

This strategic contract choice opens up opportunities for prominent players like Karl-Anthony Towns, Mikal Bridges, and OG Anunoby to either join or re-sign with the team.

Interestingly, Brunson downplayed his role during the playoffs when reporters inquired about his limited ball time in the second round against the 76ers, stating he was “not a star.”

“He’s a leader,” Francesa concluded. “He establishes the right environment. He doesn’t rush things. Instead, he takes each game seriously and creates the ideal tone.”