Dallas Mavericks: Should they extend Jalen Brunson this offseason?

The Dallas Mavericks could not believe that Jalen Brunson was available in the second round of the 2018 NBA Draft. They had a first-round grade on him and were ecstatic to select JB 33rd overall. It was a banner night for the Mavs. They traded into the top three to draft Luka Doncic and quickly jumped out of a short rebuild.

Brunson led Villanova to two NCAA championships in his three seasons. He quickly played his way into the Mavericks rotation. The 24-year-old made a significant leap in his third NBA season. JB was in the running for Sixth Man of the Year as he averaged 12.6 points on 52.3 percent shooting from the field. The 6’1 guard continues to improve and could be in line for a larger role next season.

The Mavs signed Jalen Brunson to a non-traditional contract after he was drafted in 2018, and that could come back to bite them. Here is a closer look at his deal, and why Dallas needs to extend him this offseason.

Why Dallas Mavericks must extend Jalen Brunson this summer

Brunson agreed to a four-year partially guaranteed $6.1 million in 2018. First-round picks have rookie-scale contracts, but teams are free to sign second-rounders to whatever deals they choose. The Mavericks gave him a non-guaranteed final year worth $1.8 million. They are certain to pick up that option, but it allows JB to become an unrestricted free agent in 2022. The deal gave Dallas some protection if he did not pan out, but it bites because the 24-year-old never becomes a restricted free agent.

It means the Dallas Mavericks must extend Jalen Brunson this offseason if they want to ensure he stays long-term. Will they do it? Here is the case for and against before attempting to reach a verdict.

Next: Case for an extension