Jalen Brunson has evolved into the New York Knicks’ face of the franchise. Since joining the Knicks, Brunson has earned three All-Star selections, a feat few anticipated during his time with the Dallas Mavericks.
Last season, Brunson helped lead the Knicks to their first Eastern Conference Finals appearance in 25 years. Despite his success on the court, Brunson continues to face criticism from, including from sports analyst Stephen A. Smith. But former NBA champion Kendrick Perkins defended Brunson against Smith’s remarks.
Kendrick Perkins Praises Jalen Brunson’s Efforts
In a recent episode of “First Take,” Smith criticized Brunson for reportedly requesting that the Knicks acquire Mikal Bridges. Rumors suggest Brunson personally asked the front office to pursue Bridges in 2024.
Smith’s criticism stems from Bridges’ recent performance with the Knicks. Against the Golden State Warriors on Sunday, Bridges scored seven points and shot 30% from the field.
Smith labeled Bridges a liability and held Brunson accountable. While acknowledging some truth in Smith’s comments, Perkins highlighted Brunson’s contributions to the Knicks.
Perkins objected to Smith’s criticism, noting Brunson’s sacrifices for the franchise. According to reports, Brunson could have signed a $270 million max extension but instead agreed to $156.5 million, allowing the Knicks to add more talent.
“Brunson and the word ‘blame’ should never be in the same sentence.”
— @KendrickPerkins is “very” disappointed in @stephenasmith ⬇️ pic.twitter.com/KLcFMabdBv
— First Take (@FirstTake) March 17, 2026
Although Perkins admitted Bridges has struggled recently, he rejected the notion that Brunson should be blamed.
“Brunson and the word ‘blame’ should never be in the same sentence,” Perkins told Smith. “If you’re going to blame Jalen Brunson for having one ask, and that was to go get Mikal Bridges, then shame on you. Because this is the same guy who took a pay cut in order to get this squad to win and to be legit title contenders.
“(Brunson) didn’t know that Mikal Bridges was going to come here and be this version of Mikal Bridges. Let’s not act like we didn’t see a version of Mikal Bridges that we fell in love with when he was with the Phoenix Suns. Now, I agree with you. He does need to up his level of play because he has been a disappointment this season.”
Despite their recent struggles, the Knicks sit in third place in the Eastern Conference with a 44-25 record. They trail the second-place Boston Celtics (45-23) by only two games, leaving New York with an opportunity to secure the No. 2 seed before the playoffs.
