Could the Knicks All-Star Guard Make It Back-to-Back Clutch Player of the Year Awards?
New York Knicks superstar guard Jalen Brunson captured the NBA’s Clutch Player of the Year Award last season, an honor first introduced during the 2022-23 NBA season. Brunson became the third player to receive the award, following De’Aaron Fox and Stephen Curry. The award recognizes the player who performs best in “clutch time,” defined as the final five minutes of the fourth quarter or overtime when the score is within five points. As New York’s captain and offensive leader, Brunson has played a major role in the franchise’s resurgence over the past several seasons. His ability to control the tempo and deliver late-game scoring has made him one of the most reliable guards in the Eastern Conference. The primary question now is whether Brunson can replicate that success and contend for the Clutch Player of the Year Award again during the 2025-26 NBA season.
Statistically, Brunson continues to produce in pressure situations. Through much of the season, he has remained among the top scorers in clutch-time situations, reinforcing his reputation as a dependable late-game option. However, performances in marquee matchups have raised some concerns. In a recent loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder, Brunson finished with 16 points and struggled to find his rhythm offensively, converting just five field goals. Against elite teams competing for positioning toward the NBA Playoffs and ultimately the 2026 NBA Finals, those late-game performances often carry greater weight in award discussions. In an award centered entirely on clutch efficiency and production, inconsistent shooting in key moments can impact a player’s candidacy.
At the moment, Minnesota Timberwolves guard Anthony Edwards is widely viewed as the frontrunner for the Clutch Player of the Year Award. Edwards has led Minnesota deep into the Western Conference standings after consecutive appearances in the Western Conference Finals and continues to average close to 30 points per game this season. His clutch efficiency and high-volume scoring have been among the best in the league. Edwards currently leads the NBA this season in clutch-time scoring, making him the frontrunner. Close behind him is Philadelphia 76ers guard Tyrese Maxey, who has taken on the role of primary scorer for Philadelphia this season. Maxey ranks second in clutch-time points while also leading the NBA in assists and minutes played in late-game scenarios.
For Brunson, the statistical race remains challenging. He currently sits outside the top tier of betting odds for the Clutch Player of the Year Award, but the race is far from decided with significant regular-season games remaining. The Knicks are currently battling near the top of the Eastern Conference standings, chasing teams like the Boston Celtics for playoff positioning. As New York approaches a demanding West Coast road stretch, the team will prioritize wins and momentum heading toward the NBA Playoffs. While Brunson may not currently lead the league in clutch metrics, his leadership and experience in late-game situations ensure he will remain part of the conversation as the season progresses.
