Jalen Brunson Gives Surprising Quote Why It Was 'Good' for Knicks to Lose Season-Opener to 76ers

New York Knicks star Jalen Brunson had a positive outlook following a 106-100 loss to the Philadelphia 76ers to open the 2026-27 season on Tuesday.

"I think it's good for us to kind of get knocked down off the mountain, humble ourselves, put our egos in check and see what's going to happen," Brunson told reporters after the game. "I've told you guys since day one, whatever happens these first couple weeks of the season, that's gonna show who we truly are. So, let's see."

Sixers Out to Spoil Knicks' Ring Night 😈

The defeat occurred on the night the Knicks received their championship rings and raised a banner to commemorate their 2026 NBA Finals victory.

Brunson played a pivotal role in New York's playoff run last season, earning Eastern Conference Finals MVP honors before taking home the Finals MVP award.

He struggled against the 76ers on Tuesday, though.

Brunson finished with a team-high 21 points, but shot a mere 6-of-19 from the field and 1-of-3 from behind the arc. He also recorded just three assists while committing two turnovers.

The 2025 Clutch Player of the Year couldn't get going down the stretch of the game as well, scoring two points on 1-of-5 shooting in the fourth quarter.

Despite Tuesday's disappointing result, Brunson and the Knicks have plenty of time to get back on track as they look to defend their title.

New York will face the Boston Celtics in its second game of the season on Friday at 7 p.m. ET.