Jalen Brunson Calls Players Only Meeting Amid Knicks Slump

Merlin sees trouble in Madison Square Garden. After a 114-97 loss to Dallas that left New York 25-18 and losers of nine of their last 11, Jalen Brunson called a players-only meeting, saying the team must find answers “among themselves” rather than look to the coaches. Josh Hart was blunt, “We all need to do some soul-searching,” calling the play “embarrassing” and defense “abysmal.” Fans booed and Brunson admitted, “I'd be booing us too.” Merlin notes the roster carries championship hopes with Brunson, Karl-Anthony Towns, Mikal Bridges and OG Anunoby, yet chemistry and effort are the missing spells. The meeting signals accountability, but words must turn into tougher defense, cleaner offense and clearer roles. The Garden’s boos are a crossroads moment for leadership to prove it can change the season’s course.