Knicks make move that further cements that they are Jalen Brunson's team

The New York Knicks are undoubtedly Jalen Brunson's team.

The organization on Tuesday continued to show that by making a small, but meaningful move — naming Brunson as captain of the team.

The Knicks announced that Brunson is the first team captain since Lance Thomas (!) got the honor in 2018-19 (which also shows just how much the organization has leveled up this decade).

It's clear that the organization prizes Brunson. His dad is on the coaching staff. The team president, Leon Rose, is his godfather. Brunson's agent is Rose's son. Three of Brunson's college teammates are on the roster (this was the case last year, too, with Ryan Arcidiacono before he was traded).

Brunson signed a four-year, $156 million extension this offseason. It's obviously a massive contract, but it's also a big discount for the team . It's worth wondering if Brunson would have taken such a deal if the Knicks weren't such a family operation — one he trusts to continue to build up and make use of the financial flexibility he's given them .

Of course, through two seasons, Brunson has earned this dedication by helping change the trajectory of the franchise. Beyond his on-court success, Brunson is often credited for his leadership and the way his cool, calm demeanor ripples through the locker room.

The Knicks would not be considered potential championship contenders this season if Brunson had not blossomed into a top-15 player. Now, he is officially the leader of a team that hopes to go far this season.