Dallas Mavericks: Jalen Brunson has a new puppy

Dallas Mavericks guard Jalen Brunson shows off his new puppy

The Dallas Mavericks will be taking part in the NBA’s restart without Jalen Brunson. The 23-year-old suffered a shoulder injury in the opening moments of the Feb. 22 game against the Atlanta Hawks. Brunson had surgery just days after the NBA suspended play.

There was some hope that he may be healthy enough to play in Orlando, but coach Rick Carlisle ruled him out during a June 5 radio interview.

The Mavericks have options to fill his role in Orlando. News broke on Thursday that they cannot sign a free agent unless they waive someone on their roster.

That means the role will be filled from within. The three candidates to earn more minutes are Seth Curry, Delon Wright, and J.J. Barea. Curry and Wright have played primarily off the ball this season. The Mavs are likely to turn to Barea in the playoffs to lead the second unit. Expect all three to see additional minutes, though.

It is not all bad news for Jalen Brunson, though. The Mavs guard is rehabbing and has a new companion.

Dallas Mavericks guard Jalen Brunson shares photo of his new puppy

The Mavs twitter posted a picture of Brunson and his new friend on June 10.

Hopefully, we get to see more of the dog. Wishing Brunson well in taking care of the new companion.

Mavericks fans should expect him to be ready for the start of the 2020-2021 season. That appears set for December at this moment.

Brunson noted that he was to be sidelined four to six months. That leaves the window open a crack that he is healthy enough to play in the playoffs in Orlando. The Mavs likely play it safe and allow him more time to heal. Stay tuned for updates on his rehab as they become available.