Years Before His NBA Finals MVP Win, Jalen Brunson Turned to Dr. Daniel Worrel for Shoulder Care

Six years before Jalen Brunson was named NBA Finals MVP, his journey included a stop at Carrell Clinic. 

In March 2020, Brunson, while playing for the Dallas Mavericks, underwent surgery to address an injury to the labrum of his right shoulder. The procedure was performed by one of Carrell Clinic's expert shoulder and elbow specialists, Dr. Daniel Worrel.

Brunson sustained the injury during a Mavericks game in February 2020 and underwent surgery the following month. After months of rehabilitation, he returned to the court for the 2020–21 NBA season. 

Today, Brunson's career has reached a new milestone. 

In June 2026, Brunson led the New York Knicks to the NBA championship and was named the 2026 NBA Finals MVP, earning the Bill Russell Trophy. He averaged 32.6 points per game during the championship series and delivered 45 points in the title-clinching Game 5, helping New York secure its first NBA championship since 1973. 

For Dr. Worrel, who has spent years treating athletes at the professional, collegiate and recreational levels, Brunson's continued success represents a memorable connection to his extensive experience in sports medicine and shoulder care. 

About Dr. Daniel Worrel 

Dr. Worrel is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon at Carrell Clinic specializing in shoulder and elbow surgery and sports medicine. His experience includes caring for professional and elite athletes as well as active patients seeking to return to the activities they love. 

Learn more about Dr. Daniel Worrel and his approach to advanced shoulder and elbow care, click here.