Former NBA player says Jalen Brunson is on track to become the greatest player in New York Knicks history

The New York Knicks are on the brink of reaching the NBA Finals for the first time in decades, returning to the Eastern Conference Finals to face an Indiana Pacers team hungry to make history of its own. The Knicks’ postseason surge has been fueled largely by the brilliance of their star guard, Jalen Brunson. And now, a conversation is heating up: could Brunson be on his way to becoming the greatest Knick of all time?

Since his arrival in New York, Brunson has not only delivered on the court but has emerged as the team’s emotional and tactical leader. Former NBA player Quentin Richardson addressed Brunson’s legacy during an appearance on The Pat McAfee Show, noting just how significant his trajectory has become.

“He’s on pace to be the greatest Knick ever,” Richardson said. “If he wins the NBA championship, it won’t even be a contest. But even without a ring, he’s already got a shot at that title.” While the Knicks have had their share of iconic figures, Brunson’s postseason heroics and leadership have rapidly elevated his status within the franchise’s storied history.

There’s little doubt that if the Knicks manage to secure their first NBA title since 1973, Brunson’s name will be etched in franchise lore. And he’s not alone in reshaping the team’s modern identity—players like Karl-Anthony Towns, Mikal Bridges, and Josh Hart have all played pivotal roles and may also find themselves among the most celebrated in team history.

To fully grasp Brunson‘s growing legacy, it’s essential to consider the names he’s chasing. Chief among them is Walt “Clyde” Frazier, the stylish point guard who led the Knicks to their only two NBA championships in 1970 and 1973. Known for his elite defense, clutch performances, and iconic presence at Madison Square Garden, Frazier remains a gold standard in Knicks history.

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Another pillar of the franchise is Patrick Ewing, who spent 15 seasons as the face of the Knicks during the 1990s. An 11-time All-Star and the heart of a gritty, defensive-minded squad, Ewing carried New York to NBA Finals appearances in 1994 and 1999. Though a title eluded him, Ewing’s consistent excellence and leadership helped define an era of pride and relevance for the Knicks.

In more recent history, Carmelo Anthony served as the Knicks’ offensive focal point throughout the 2010s. During his seven seasons in New York, Anthony won the NBA scoring title in 2013 and led the Knicks to their last playoff series win. While he didn’t reach the team heights of Ewing or Frazier, Melo’s connection to the city, star power, and scoring prowess cemented his place among the franchise’s most impactful figures.