League: NBA Sport: Basketball Country: United States Category: Scores & Results

Nico Harrison's decision-making aids Knicks' championship run with Jalen Brunson

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 14, 2026, 6:32 PM

Last updated Jun 14, 2026

Nico Harrison's decision-making aids Knicks' championship run with Jalen Brunson

Summary

The New York Knicks captured the 2025-26 NBA championship, ending a 53-year title drought. Jalen Brunson, acquired from the Dallas Mavericks in 2022, played a pivotal role, supported by a revamped medical team led by Casey Smith. Under Smith’s guidance, the Knicks achieved the largest playoff point differential in NBA history during their postseason run. Meanwhile, a decision by former Mavericks executive Nico Harrison to release Smith when in Dallas is highlighted as a key factor that ultimately benefitted New York’s injury management and performance this season.

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By the Numbers

•Knicks won 2025-26 NBA championship, their first in 53 years.
•Jalen Brunson's arrival from Mavericks was crucial to the team's success.
•Casey Smith's injury management led the Knicks to the healthiest postseason.
•Knicks outscored opponents by 283 points in the playoffs, setting a record.
•Nico Harrison's decision to let Smith go is seen as a critical misstep.

Latest Updates

6:32 PMYahoo Sports — How Nico Harrison helped Jalen Brunson and the Knicks win the championship

What they're saying

"
The former Mavericks executive let Brunson go in free agency in 2022, but also made another critical mistake that helped New York end its 53-year title drought.
— Yahoo Sportsby Tom Haberstroh

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