Mike Brown calls for Jalen Brunson’s MVP consideration after Magic’s win

Mike Brown had an MFA declaration to share Jalen Brunson following New York NBA Cup semi-final match between the Knicks and the Orlando Magic on Saturday night.

Brunson ignited the Magic defense with his offensive talent. In 39 minutes of action, he finished with 40 points, eight assists and four rebounds. He shot 16 of 27 from the field, including 2 of 5 from beyond the arc and 6 of 9 from the free throw line.

Brown reflected on Brunson’s performance after the game, according to NBA insider Brett Siegel. He believes he is a star guardian should be the favorite to win the MVP and that the league recognizes him more.

“That’s just the way he is,” Brown said. “He didn’t get enough credit… I hope to see more of that from the national team.”

Mike Brown opens his press conference by making it clear that Jaylen Brunson should be the NBA MVP after his 40-point night against the Magic to lead the Knicks to the NBA Cup championship.

“That’s exactly what he is.” pic.twitter.com/L5o0Kii5kc

— Brett Siegel (@BrettSiegelNBA) December 14, 2025

As Jalen Brunson, the Knicks played against the Magic

Jaylen Brunson had a great run for Mike Brown and the Knicks, leading them to the NBA Cup championship game after defeating the Magic.

The game between both teams was close to start as Orlando led 36-33 after the first quarter. New York responded with a 38-28 second period lead that allowed them to control the momentum for the remainder of the contest.

Shot selection, free throws and blocking made the difference in this match. The Knicks won in all three categories, making 61% of the total shots, making 23 free throws and blocking seven shots. It wasn’t the same for the Magic as they knocked down 46% of their overall chances, had 17 shots at the line and three shots.

Five players scored in double figures for New York in the win, including Brunson. Karl-Anthony Towns had a strong night with 29 points, eight rebounds, two assists, one steal and a block. He shot 9-of-11 overall, including 2-of-4 from downtown and 9-of-10 from the charity stripe. Next is OG Anunoby with 24 points and six rebounds, Mikal Bridges with 16 points and three rebounds, while Josh Hart scored 12 points and six rebounds.

New York improved to 18-7 on the season, holding second place in the Eastern Conference standings. They are three games above the Boston Celtics and 3.5 games above the Philadelphia 76ers, Orlando Magic and Toronto Raptors. Meanwhile, they trail the Detroit Pistons by two games.

The Knicks will look forward to the NBA Cup championship game on December 16. They will face the winner of the semifinal between the Oklahoma City Thunder and the San Antonio Spurs, which begins on December 13th at 9:00 PM ET.