Dallas Mavericks: Grading Jalen Brunson’s 2019-2020 season

Dallas Mavericks guard Jalen Brunson had an up and down second campaign. Here is a grade for his production in the 2019-2020 season.

The Dallas Mavericks drafted Jalen Brunson with the 33rd overall pick in 2018. They were stunned that he last into the second round, but ecstatic that he was coming to Dallas.

Brunson had a strong rookie season. He was on the fringes of the rotation early on. Minutes opened up after J.J. Barea suffered a torn Achilles and the Mavs pulled off the blockbuster trade for Kristaps Porzingis. The rookie flourished. He averaged 13.3 points, 3.2 rebounds, and 4.5 assists in 28.8 minutes over his final 30 games.

That led to Brunson becoming a member of the USA select team during the summer of 2019.

There were expectations for improvement coming into his second NBA season. The Mavericks and coach Rick Carlisle appeared ready for him to take over as the backup point guard. The 23-year-old was going to be the playmaker in the second unit. The Mavs beefed up their depth to make his job easier.

Jalen Brunson played that role, but the minutes were inconsistent. The additions of Delon Wright and Seth Curry impacted his time on the court. A shoulder injury ended Brunson’s season on Feb. 22. He had surgery after the NBA suspended the season. Fans should not expect him back if play resumes.

Let us take a look at Jalen Brunson’s performance this season. We will hand out a grade for his offensive and defensive contributions before reaching a final verdict on his second campaign.

Next: Offensive grade