"You got Jared McCain"- Josh Hart roasts Jalen Brunson's defense as Knicks PG says he wants Paul Goerge assignment
The New York Knicks were one of the most exciting teams to watch last season because of how much they prioritized high-level defense while being led by a superstar in Jalen Brunson. However, Josh Hart had some jokes about Brunson's defensive capabilities when asked who was going to be given the Paul George assignment.
The New York squad ranked ninth defensively last season and looks to be on pace to get even better with the offseason acquisition of Mikal Bridges. However, it's not only the Knicks that decided to beef up their roster for the upcoming season, as Philadelphia wasn't skipping any steps in pairing a nine-time All-Star alongside Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey.
During Friday's episode of "The Roommates Show," Josh Hart was initially asked if either OG Anunoby or Mikal Bridges would be tasked with slowing down Paul George. However, Jalen Brunson responded to the question by raising his hand with an "I got PG" answer, leading to Hart jumping on his response.
"Why you putting your hand up?" Hart asked. "... You got Jared McCain."
It was a hilarious back-and-forth between the two Knicks teammates who showcased their chemistry on and off the court last season. That Villanova chemistry, alongside Donte DiVincenzo, will be even more complemented in the upcoming season once Mikal Bridges steps on the court with them.
Brunson has never been recognized as a perimeter defender similar to the capabilities of Hart and Anunoby. This isn't to say that he's not capable of stepping up to the challenge when called upon. At the same time, he isn't viewed as the first choice in slowing down George's offensive rhythm.
Jalen Brunson gets mocked by Josh Hart and Mikal Bridges over his comment about being exhausted in playing offense and defense
During an episode of "The Roommates Show" that was released on Feb. 15, Mikal Bridges and Josh Hart discussed how demanding it is to guard offensive players and be asked to put the ball in the hole at the other end. Interestingly, Jalen Brunson agreed with the sentiment but Hart immediately cut him off by disagreeing with his position.
"(43:40) No, you don't guard," Hart said.
The chemistry between the two has always been evident with how connected they are together on the court. Meanwhile, their podcast humor remains unmatched with how quickly they are able to poke fun at one another.
In that instance, Mikal Bridges added his two cents by being suspicious of what Jalen Brunson just said, considering that he too is a capable perimeter defender.
Now that all three are teammates once again, it should be an interesting dynamic to see how they play off each other.