Remember the 2018 NBA Draft? Everyone talked about Luka, SGA, and Trae. But a new retrospective is crowning an unlikely king from that class: our very own Jalen Brunson! His journey from pick #33 to the heart of the New York Knicks is a story for the ages. What makes his rise so special?

Jalen Brunson, the dynamic guard for the New York Knicks, has recently been lauded in a retrospective analysis as arguably the most valuable selection from the highly talented 2018 NBA Draft class, a testament to his remarkable and unexpected ascent in the league.

The 2018 NBA Draft was famously rich with future NBA Stars, including Luka Dončić, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, and Trae Young, all of whom entered the NBA with significant fanfare and high lottery selections. Jalen Brunson, however, was a considerably less celebrated prospect, chosen at a modest 33rd overall, a position far removed from the spotlight of his more heralded peers.

His professional journey began quietly in Dallas, playing alongside Luka Dončić, where he steadily developed his game, transforming from a rotational piece into a reliable scoring guard. This period was crucial for refining his skills, preparing him for a more prominent role, though his true potential remained largely understated by many observers.

The turning point in Jalen Brunson’s career arrived when he signed with the New York Knicks in free agency, a move that allowed him to step into a less-constricting offensive system. He almost immediately flourished, showcasing his exceptional shooting and playmaking abilities, quickly becoming the undeniable face of the New York Knicks franchise and a fan favorite.

Since joining the New York Knicks, Brunson has led the team to consistent playoff contention, proving his mettle in high-pressure situations. His leadership and clutch performances have been instrumental in the team’s success, including a memorable run to the Eastern Conference Finals in 2025, marking a significant achievement in his burgeoning NBA career.

While some of his 2018 NBA Draft contemporaries have perhaps reached higher individual peaks or maintained longer stretches of elite performance, Brunson’s unique narrative—his rise from a mid-second-round pick to a legitimate top-tier NBA Star and undisputed leader—is what firmly places him in the conversation for the draft’s most valuable selection. This distinct development story sets him apart in any Basketball Analysis.

This remarkable journey was recognized by CBS Sports, who, in their retrospective series on valuable NBA selections, highlighted Jalen Brunson’s unprecedented trajectory. His elevation from the 33rd pick to an All-Star caliber guard provides a powerful identity that he will forever carry, underscoring his extraordinary impact and defying initial expectations from the 2018 NBA Draft.

Despite his current accolades, Jalen Brunson continually strives to prove his worth among the NBA’s elite, embracing the challenge of solidifying his position as one of the game’s premier talents. His career path serves as an inspiring example of perseverance, skill refinement, and the profound impact a player can have when given the right opportunity and platform, continuing to shine for the New York Knicks.