NBA legend and current NBC analyst Jamal Crawford recently answered fan questions, offering his perspective on the 2026 NBA Finals between the New York Knicks and San Antonio Spurs, as well as various other playoff and player topics.
2026 NBA Finals: Knicks vs. Spurs
Deciding Factor
"The deciding factor of the series will be will."
Crawford noted that the Knicks have not reached the Finals since 1999 and that their fan base will provide energy. He described Spurs star Victor Wembanyama as "determined."
Strategy for Knicks vs. Wembanyama
Crawford suggested the Knicks should attempt to draw Wembanyama away from the basket. The key, he says, is using Karl-Anthony Towns' three-point shooting to force Wemby out of the paint.
Strategy for Spurs Offense with Wembanyama
Crawford described two offensive methods for San Antonio:
- A pin-down screen when Wembanyama is in the corner, allowing him to cut to the middle.
- Guard-led pick-and-rolls when Wembanyama handles the ball, utilizing his height for passing lanes.
Handling Jalen Brunson and Karl-Anthony Towns
- For Brunson: The Spurs need "group discipline," including forcing Brunson to expend energy on defense.
- For Towns: Crawford predicts he will be used as a hub on offense.
Adjustments for the Spurs in Game 6
Crawford suggests keeping Wembanyama closer to the basket. He noted that in Games 1 and 4, when Wembanyama dominated, he played near the rim. In Game 5, Crawford observed that Wembanyama took only four shots from inside the three-point line in the first half.
Team Depth
Crawford said the Spurs have more depth due to a larger number of playmakers.
Series Prediction
Crawford predicted the series will last either six or seven games.
Wembanyama Era
"If the Spurs win, we are officially in the Wemby era."
He added that this may already be the case given his playoff performance.
Impact of Jalen Brunson on Young Players
Crawford stated that if the Knicks win and Brunson wins Finals MVP, young guards will likely try to mimic his game—which is based on intangibles rather than pure athleticism.
Brunson's Legacy
Crawford said if Brunson wins a championship, he would enter the conversation with Walt Frazier, Willis Reed, and Patrick Ewing.
Pressure at Madison Square Garden
"The atmosphere at Madison Square Garden is always high, and the Finals will amplify it."
Player Swap Idea
Crawford suggested Landry Shamet would fit with the Spurs, while Carter Bryant would fit with the Knicks.
Best Opponent for Knicks
Crawford said that whoever wins the Western Conference will be more tired due to a longer battle.
Other Playoff & Player Observations
What Separates the Knicks
Crawford noted the Knicks have a new coach and a different philosophy. He said Brunson plays off the ball more, making quicker decisions. He also mentioned that last year's adversity helped the team.
Brunson's Post Play
Crawford said guards should adopt Brunson's post footwork because it allows for better passing angles and dangerous reads when double-teamed.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander's Impact
Crawford said SGA's pace and ability to make the right read when a second defender approaches make him difficult to guard. He also uses opponents' aggressiveness to get to the free-throw line.
Alex Caruso's Defense
"Caruso takes pride in defense and has full confidence to guard opponents one-on-one, aiming to frustrate them."
Mentoring Wembanyama
Crawford said it has been "incredible" to see Wembanyama's development and that he views him as a "tall guard," not a big man.
Wembanyama vs. Young Kevin Durant in Workouts
Crawford said both provided "not normal" moments: Durant displayed near-perfect skill execution, while Wembanyama performed feats like dunking over a coaching stick.
Subtle Playoff Adjustment
Crawford said great players learn to stay calm amid the chaos and pressure.
Handling Pressure
Players find escapes such as walks, yoga, or being away from phones to reset.
Most Impressed by a Player
Crawford cited Michael Jordan's last sequence with the Chicago Bulls: a layup, steal, and game-winner.
Underrated Guards
Crawford listed: Mahmoud Abdul-Rauf, Nick Van Exel, Rod Strickland, Andre Miller, Chauncey Billups, and Terrell Brandon.
Dylan Harper's Toughness
Crawford described Harper as a big guard who plays bigger in the paint, bumps defenders, and has good footwork and strength.
Personal Insights & Advice
Transition from Playing to Broadcasting
Crawford said as a broadcaster he can explain the reasoning behind players' actions—something he could not do while playing.
Coaching Style Evolution
Crawford observes current NBA players' workouts and incorporates their techniques into training his children.
Son JJ Crawford 1v1
"I would win now and in my prime, but my son is better at the same age."
Son's AAU Ranking
Crawford's son is ranked No. 1 for the Class of 2029; Crawford emphasized the work behind the ranking.
AAU vs. High School
Crawford said high school focuses on winning, while AAU is a showcase.
Advice for Young Guards
- Watch film
- Play actual games (not just training)
- Learn to handle contact
Most Used Dribble Move
"The hesitation dribble is the most common, as it sets up changes in direction and pace."
Scoring 30 vs. 12 Assists
Crawford said difficulty depends on the player. He noted that for him, 12 assists was tough because it required partnership—but the feeling of dominating without scoring was "intoxicating."
Favorite Part of Offseason
Spending time with family and training with his children.
Best Shooting Form
Crawford said Klay Thompson has the best current form; previously it was Ray Allen.
Coaches' Attire
Crawford prefers relaxed fits.
Falling Out of Love with Game
Crawford suggests watching old footage or players that inspired your love for the game.