Rumors: Dallas Mavericks and Jalen Brunson have mutual interest in new contract

The Dallas Mavericks want to bring back soon-to-be free agent Jalen Brunson. Owner Mark Cuban has made his desire clear, and the organization has JB's Bird Rights meaning they can offer a fifth season and more money than any other potential suitor. Brunson's deal will push Dallas deep into the luxury tax, but they cannot let him leave without their roster taking a massive step backward.

Brunson holds all the cards as he is an unrestricted free agent that is free to sign with any team. The Knicks, Pistons, and Pacers have all expressed interest in signing JB, and the 25-year-old point guard is expected to get more than $20 million per season after free agency opens on July 1.

The Athletic’s Tim Cato noted his sources say the interest is mutual (subscription required) between Brunson and the Mavericks. He has transformed from a second-round pick to unquestioned starter and the second-leading scorer on a conference finals team in Dallas. JB knows his role and the team’s tight-knit bond has to factor into his decision.

Rumors: Dallas Mavericks and Jalen Brunson have mutual interest in new contract

Cato reported in the same piece that Brunson and his agent have not began weighing his options yet. The Knicks have significant interest, and Jalen and his father Rick have known New York president Leon Rose for decades. They appear to be the Mavericks' biggest roadblock, but the Knicks do not have enough cap space to seriously pursue Brunson.

Will Jalen Brunson re-sign with the Dallas Mavericks this summer? Time will tell, but rumors suggest the 6’1 guard prefers to stay in Dallas and the team is 100 percent interested in a reunion. The contract details will matter, and the Mavs need to make a strong offer to retain him.

Stay tuned to The Smoking Cuban for all the latest on Jalen Brunson’s free agency and all the news, rumors, and analysis fans are searching for about the Dallas Mavericks this offseason.