Jalen Brunson Shows Off Sling in First Public Outing Post-Wrist Surgery

**Jalen Brunson made his first public appearance since wrist surgery on July 13, 2026**, wearing a sling at The Other Lucy Beach Grille in Margate, New Jersey-less than a month after clinching NBA Finals MVP with the New York Knicks.**

The point guard, who averaged **32.6 points per game** in the Finals, underwent surgery on **July 2** to repair a tendon issue that flared up during the playoff run. His six-to-eight-week recovery puts his return in question as the Knicks prepare for title defense.

The visit wasn’t random. The restaurant is tied to the **H.O.P.E. program**, which Brunson has supported. A post on the restaurant’s social media thanked him for his **“inspiration and leadership”**, calling his championship run *“incredible.”* The invite from **Roman Reigns** for a WWE event this weekend-**Madison Square Garden’s *Saturday Night’s Main Event***-also factored in.

Despite the sling, Brunson **dominated Game 5** against San Antonio, scoring a **Knicks Finals record 45 points** after a **36-point Game 4** comeback from a **29-point deficit**. Yet, after the clincher, he admitted pain: *“I’m hurting right now. But the opportunity presented itself.”* The tendon issue had plagued him all season, including a **45-point Finals average** that masked the struggle.

With a **six-to-eight-week timeline**, his availability for the Knicks’ preseason or early regular season is uncertain. The team will need him at full strength for a repeat bid, but Brunson’s **July 13 sighting** suggests he’s pushing through-just as he did in the playoffs.

Beyond Knicks fans, **WWE fans** will see him at the **July 14 *Saturday Night’s Main Event***, where he’ll join Reigns. The appearance underscores his dual role as an athlete and public figure-one that extends beyond basketball.