Brunson takes responsibility as Knicks begin title defense 0-3
New York lost 111-102 to Orlando, becoming the first defending NBA champion since the 2011-12 Dallas Mavericks to lose its opening three games.
Jalen Brunson took responsibility for New York's offensive problems after the Orlando Magic beat the Knicks 111-102, leaving the defending NBA champions without a win through three games. The Knicks captain said his leadership and organization needed to improve.
Brunson scored 28 points against Orlando, shooting 12-of-28 from the field while missing six of his seven attempts from three-point range. In comments reported by ESPN's Vincent Goodwill, he said he needed to do more to ensure teammates were prepared and positioned correctly.
The 2026 NBA Finals Most Valuable Player also called for a different response from the praise that followed New York's first championship in 53 years. Speaking in comments reported by SNY's Ian Begley, Brunson said the team now needed the reverse of the congratulations it had received throughout the summer.
Brunson said the early stage of the season should not become an excuse for losing and that the Knicks had grown comfortable during promising stretches. New York, whose season began with a loss to the Philadelphia 76ers on Oct. 20, next hosts the unbeaten, 3-0 Detroit Pistons.
