Can being an All Star snub be a good thing for Jalen Brunson?
Every year there’s a group of deserving players that don’t get the NBA All Star nod. Unfortunately, Knicks G Jalen Brunson was one of those players this year. This was surprising considering the stellar season he’s had thus far. In 56 games Brunson has played this season, he’s averaged a career high 23.9 PPG. All while shooting 48.5% from the field and 41.1% from three point range. Brunson has also averaged 6.2APG, which is a career best for him as well.
With the way that he’s been playing and the profound impact he’s had on leading this team, Brunson should have played alongside All Star Reserve and fellow teammate Julius Randle in the All Star game this past Sunday. Even though this wasn’t the case, Brunson can possibly use this as motivation. Take the opportunity to prove the doubters wrong and play even better in the near future.
Other Famous Snub
In 2016 and 2017, Portland Trail Blazers G Damian Lillard was not selected as an All Star even though he proved to be worthy of a selection each year. He also wasn’t originally selected in 2015 but made the reserve team due to an injury from one of the selected All Stars. Lillard continued to use this as motivation and elevated his game. Especially when it mattered most in the postseason. He has made a career of proving the doubters wrong and continues to perform at an MVP caliber level.
This is the same path that Jalen Brunson can take going forward. Play with a chip on your shoulder and prove to the voters that they made a mistake. With the most important games of the season approaching, a little extra motivation might be a positive thing for Brunson and the Knicks. He will need to play his best in order for the Knicks to make and possible advance in the postseason. Hopefully for the Knicks, Brunson will answer the call and remind everyone of how worthy he is of being recognized as an NBA All Star.
