"Better than Luka," "Still Cade's Son": Fans react to Jalen Brunson's MSG career night as Knicks star drops 47 for NBA Cup champs

Jalen Brunson erupted for 47 points in the New York Knicks' 132-125 win over the Miami Heat on Sunday at Madison Square Garden. Fans online reacted to Brunson's career night at MSG as the reigning NBA Cup champions got back in the win column.

Brunson was nearly unstoppable, finishing with 47 points, three rebounds and eight assists on 15-for-26 shooting, making six 3-point shots. He was toying with the Heat, doing everything he wanted on offense. He put the game away by making five clutch free throws.

It was Brunson's best individual performance at MSG, with the Knicks earning their 20th win of the season. They bounced back after their seven-game win streak was snapped by the Philadelphia 76ers on Friday. Their NBA Cup win over the San Antonio Spurs was included in their streak.

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NBA fans on social media were divided, with some loving Jalen Brunson's performance and others just plain hating on the New York Knicks superstar. One thought that Brunson was better than Luka Doncic, while another thought that Cade Cunningham had cleared him already.

Nevertheless, here are some of the comments on X, formerly known as Twitter.

Jalen Brunson is having an MVP-like campaign for the New York Knicks. He's averaging a career-high 29.1 points, 3.4 rebounds and 6.6 assists per game this season. He led the Knicks to their first trophy since the 1973 NBA championship.

While some fans don't take the NBA Cup seriously, it was a great indicator that the Knicks could have a chance to lift the title this season. As long as Brunson stays healthy and the East remains wide-open, the Knicks might make some noise in the playoffs.

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Jalen Brunson ranks fifth in MVP poll

Jalen Brunson ranks fifth in MVP poll. (Photo: IMAGN)

ESPN recently held a straw poll that mimics real voting for MVP later in the season. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander would have won his second straight MVP, with Nikola Jokic, Luka Doncic, Cade Cunningham and Jalen Brunson completing the Top 5.

Brunson didn't receive any first-place votes, but he appeared on 60 ballots. Knicks coach Mike Brown shared the sentiment after their NBA Cup win, hoping that his superstar gets consideration at the end of the season.

"When you guys start talking about MVP candidates, (I hope) his name is one of the first that comes out of your mouth," Brown said, according to ESPN. "Because on this stage, to go get it done while winning, is what in my opinion an MVP is all about."

Based on the voting, it could be another two-horse race between SGA and "The Joker."

Edited by Juan Paolo David