The 2026 Knicks Are #7 All-Time, And Jalen Brunson's History-Making Performance Is Still UNDERRATED

Alright, you guys, can we talk about what just went down?! After a ridiculous 53-year wait, the New York Knicks actually pulled it off. They’re NBA Champions! They just knocked out a phenomenal San Antonio Spurs squad in five games, winning all three road games and clinching that title in Game 5. This Knicks core is etched into history now, which means one thing: how do they stack up against the greats? Let's dive in.

Brunson's Historic Night Can't Be Ignored

These 2026 Knicks landed at number seven on the list of recent champs, and honestly, you gotta wonder if that's even high enough! This whole run felt like true team destiny, man, and it’s a masterclass in elite team building. Jalen Brunson was absolutely legendary, becoming the ONLY Knick ever to drop 40+ points in an NBA Finals game. But let's be real, it wasn't just Brunson carrying the load. Karl Anthony Towns came out swinging with pure aggressiveness to snag those first two games. OG Anunoby was a Game 4 savior, even getting some Finals MVP buzz. And shoutout to Mikal Bridges in Game 2 and Jose Alvarado in Game 4 for those timely, much-needed performances. What a squad. They personify resilience, for sure.

The Other Champs: Where Do They Land?

It’s tough company out there! The 2022 Golden State Warriors, at number ten, really rode that veteran experience, with Steph still being Steph. Andrew Wiggins had a career revival as the second-best player, taking down young guns like the Grizzlies, Mavericks, and Celtics. Prime Klay and Draymond were a distant memory by then. Moving up to number nine, the 2021 Milwaukee Bucks were absolutely worthy champs. Giannis Antetokounmpo delivered one of the greatest close-out performances ever, dropping 50 points and going 17-for-17 from the free-throw line. Their defensive lineup, with Giannis, Brook Lopez, and Jrue Holiday locking down the perimeter, was just phenomenal, even in a shortened season. The 2019 Toronto Raptors, at number eight, saw Kawhi Leonard cement his place as a top 30 player with that iconic shot. They probably don't win if Kevin Durant is healthy, but they still beat a Warriors team led by Stephen Curry and Klay Thompson. Depth was their only issue. And don't forget the 2023 Denver Nuggets at number six. Nikola Jokic had his defining moment, snatching that Finals MVP. Jamal Murray was an elite playoff riser, clutch in late-game situations. Their depth was killer, with rookie Christian Braun, Bruce Brown, and Aaron Gordon being that two-way beast guarding Jimmy Butler like a boss. Right above the Knicks at number five, the 2024 Boston Celtics finally got their 18th title, erasing the heartbreak of 2022 with Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown leading the way. Looking at these championship teams, you feel that energy, right? The grit, the unforgettable performances, the sheer will to win. That’s what it's all about, whether on the hardwood, pitch, or diamond. It reminds you what *our* teams in the Emerald City are striving for every single day. Let's keep that fire burning, 12s, and keep pushing for that next banner.

This article was created with AI assistance and reviewed by Seattle On Tap editorial staff. Always verify information with official team sources.