There hasn't been a grander stage for the New York Knicks in decades than Wednesday's matchup against the Spurs.
With the 2026 NBA Finals getting under way in San Antonio, the Knicks were looking to extend their playoff win streak to 12 games and steal a road matchup in Game 1. Early on, Jalen Brunson helped set the tone — but then there was concern for New York's superstar guard.
Brunson exited the game in the first quarter, grabbing at his knee after taking a hit.
Here's the latest on Brunson's status after leaving Game 1 of the 2026 NBA Finals.
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Jalen Brunson injury updates
After scoring the first bucket of the 2026 NBA Finals, Brunson and the Knicks were playing well in the first quarter, attacking Victor Wembanyama and making it clear they would make a difficult opponent for the Spurs, even at home.
But on a defensive rebound, Harrison Barnes fell as Landry Shamet pushed him aside — and as Barnes fell, he landed on Brunson's right leg.
Brunson immediately grabbed the knee in pain, and he motioned to the bench to come out of the game.
Jalen Brunson was seen grabbing at his knee after a collision with Harrison Barnes.pic.twitter.com/BdsbrupknQ
— The Sporting News (@sportingnews) June 4, 2026
The star guard was then seen heading back to the locker room to be examined, walking with a clear limp.
Jalen Brunson headed back to the locker room.
Prayers up. 🙏 pic.twitter.com/Sf0YnYUd65
— Hoop Central (@TheHoopCentral) June 4, 2026
At the start of the second quarter, Brunson was seen back on the Knicks bench, but he did not return as Deuce McBride took over point guard duties on the floor.
What happened to Jalen Brunson?
Brunson exited Game 1 of the NBA Finals on Wednesday night in the first quarter after Harrison Barnes fell to the ground on a rebound attempt, landing on the guard's right leg.
Brunson grabbed at his knee, motioned to be pulled from the game, then went back to the locker room.
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Jalen Brunson playoff stats
At this point, the Knicks go as Brunson does. He's become a superstar on the playoff stage for years, with his scoring and playmaking skills shining against postseason defenses. In the 2026 playoffs, that's been no different — he's guided New York's dominant run over the last month.
Here's a look at Brunson's 2026 playoff numbers entering the NBA Finals:
Games MPG PPG RPG APG SPG BPG FG% 3PT% FT%
14 36.1 26.9 2.8 6.6 0.9 0.0 48.6% 35.2% 83.9%