Karl-Anthony Towns says he immediately connected with Jalen Brunson after joining the New York Knicks, calling the All-Star guard “different” both on and off the court. Towns is entering his second season with the Knicks after averaging 24.4 points and a career-high 12.8 rebounds last year.
The Knicks reached the Eastern Conference Finals for the first time in 25 years in Towns’ debut season. He told DJ Siddiqi of RG that the team’s focus remains on building daily and earning the city’s respect. “Every year, you have to earn the respect of the city,” Towns said.
Towns highlighted Brunson’s skill set, describing him as “very cerebral” with a great basketball mind. Brunson, the 2025 Clutch Player of the Year, averaged 26.0 points and 7.3 assists last season and has been key in leading New York to three consecutive playoff appearances.
“He knows where he wants to get to, he knows how he wants to impact the game offensively,” Towns said. “He impacts winning.” Despite different personalities, Towns and Brunson have built a strong rapport off the court, with Towns noting Brunson’s humor and social nature.
Towns also reflected on playing for his hometown team. Growing up a New Jersey fan, he admired Carmelo Anthony and Jeremy Lin. “It’s something special. I never thought I would have the opportunity to do this,” Towns said. He added that having family, especially his grandmother, at games made the experience meaningful.
Looking ahead, Towns remains focused on the present and helping the Knicks compete for their first championship since 1973. “It’s always the goal,” he said. “For us this year, we’re just going to continue to stay in the present. Just worry about each game that day. Continue worrying about winning that day, and we’ll let the results speak for themselves at the end.”
