In the 2025-26 NBA season, the New York Knicks were a strong team in the regular season. However, they reached another level in the 2026 Playoffs after seemingly flipping a switch in their first-round series against the Atlanta Hawks.

Throughout that run, Jalen Brunson was front and center as the Knicks' superstar, but he was also doing well as the leader. Everyone responded to him well, and the rest of the team played extremely well for the rest of the championship run.

NBA GMs see Jalen Brunson as the league's best leader

The NBA is filled with fantastic players and leaders, but only one can be considered the league's best. For the upcoming 2026-27 NBA season, it seems that Brunson has earned that tag across the league.

It should not be surprising because he was the catalyst for all of the Knicks' success over the past few years. Of course, the past few months are the highlight, but this has been a long time coming with Brunson and New York.

MORE: Jalen Brunson sets the tone by avoiding distractions for the 2026-27 season

He went from being a role player on the Dallas Mavericks to becoming a true superstar. At the same time, he took the responsibility of being a star and leader for one of the league's most illustrious teams in the most natural way.

Now, his work is being acknowledged by teams around the league. In the latest survey for NBA general managers, Brunson was the best leader for 53% of the voters. 

That is a fantastic honor to get, and it is well-deserved. He has become one of the league's most respected players, and his success with the Knicks deserves to earn him some admiration around the league from GMs, coaches, and players alike.

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