The stage is set for an exciting showdown in the Eastern Conference Finals as the New York Knicks prepare to face off against the Indiana Pacers. Both teams showcased their strength in the conference semifinals, earning their place in the final four of the playoffs. Jalen Brunson has emerged as a consistent leader and performer for the Knicks, while Tyrese Haliburton has played a key role in guiding the Pacers through tough competition.
Though both Brunson and Haliburton have been instrumental in their teams’ postseason success, ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith isn’t quite ready to place Haliburton in the same elite category. On a recent episode of First Take, Smith made it clear that while Haliburton is talented and capable, he doesn’t yet see him as a true superstar.
“Brunson is (a superstar). Not Haliburton. He is not overrated, he can play and he can close and I give him mad credit for that. But he’s not a superstar,” Smith said.
Stephen A. Smith says Jalen Brunson is a superstar, but Tyrese Haliburton is not
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) May 19, 2025
“[Hali] isn't asked to do as much to carry [the Pacers'] offense as Brunson does.”
(🎥 @FirstTake / h/t @ClutchPoints )
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It was recently revealed that fellow NBA players voted Haliburton as the “most overrated” player in the league. Despite that perception, Haliburton has proven himself in the postseason with gutsy performances. However, Stephen A. Smith claimed that Haliburton doesn’t bear the same offensive responsibility as Brunson for the Knicks.
“When you consider the undersized Brunson, the load that he carries. (Haliburton) isn’t asked to do as much to carry offense as Brunson does,” he added.
Brunson Praises Haliburton Ahead Of Eastern Conference Finals Rematch
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During a recent press conference, Jalen Brunson was asked to share his thoughts on Tyrese Haliburton as the New York Knicks prepare to face the Indiana Pacers in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Finals. Brunson didn’t hesitate to show respect for his opponent. He shared Haliburton’s contributions and growth throughout the season.
“Great player. He’s done a lot. He’s obviously their engine, and they go as he goes, he does a lot for their team, so it’s gonna be a tough task. Happy, obviously, for his success,” Brunson said.
The conference finals series will be a rematch between the Knicks and Pacers. Both teams battled in last season’s conference semifinals series. During that intense matchup, the Knicks witnessed Haliburton’s determination and leadership firsthand. Hali played a crucial role in pushing the Pacers to the Conference Finals.
