The New York Knicks are poised to potentially win their first NBA title since 1973. On Wednesday, they will begin the NBA Finals against the San Antonio Spurs. Without question, they wouldn't have gotten to this point in part without the scoring exploits of Jalen Brunson.
That is especially true when it comes to performing in the clutch. In fact, Brunson's clutch performance numbers are on par with the likes of Michael Jordan, per Lev Akabas of Sportico.
Since the NBA began recording postseason play-by-play data in 1997, 77 players have taken at least 50 clutch field-goal attempts. Brunson has the second-highest total of 40.6 points per 36 minutes, behind Michael Jordan. That also includes free throws made on intentional fouls by teams trailing.
Furthermore, Brunson exceeds Jordan in points per 36 minutes from the field, at 30.0 points per 36 minutes. Jordan averaged 28.7 points.
Both were ahead of the likes of Donovan Mitchell, Kobe Bryant, LeBron James, Steph Curry, and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander.
Jalen Brunson's clutch scoring in the playoffs is literally Michael Jordan-level pic.twitter.com/DSKvTWXI9x
— Lev Akabas (@LevAkabas) June 3, 2026
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Brunson is ranked third in the NBA in clutch scoring behind Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Steph Curry. He was named the 2025 NBA Clutch Player of the Year.
Brunson is averaging 26.9 points, 6.6 assists, and 2.8 rebounds during the 2026 Playoffs. He was instrumental in leading the Knicks to sweep the Cleveland Cavaliers in the Eastern Conference Finals.
In Game 1, he finished with 38 points, six assists, and five steals in a 115-104 overtime win. Brunson then followed up with 33 points, nine assists, and five rebounds in Game 3, resulting in the Knicks winning 121-108.
As a result, Brunson was named the 2026 NBA Eastern Conference Finals MVP.
The New York Knicks are poised to potentially win their first NBA title since 1973. On Wednesday, they will begin the NBA Finals against the San Antonio Spurs. Without question, they wouldn't have gotten to this point in part without the scoring exploits of Jalen Brunson. That is especially true when it comes to performing in the clutch.