Will Jalen Brunson choose the Knicks over the Dallas Mavericks in free agency?

Will Jalen Brunson choose Knicks over Dallas Mavericks in free agency?

The New York Knicks will pursue Brunson this offseason and are the biggest threat to sign him away from Dallas. He was looking for a four-year contract worth $80 million in free agency before his massive playoff performance against the Jazz. That number may have gone up, and the Knicks are not projected to have cap space, so their likely avenue of acquiring JB is via a sign-and-trade.

The Mavericks should still be considered the favorites to re-sign Brunson on the open market, but New York is a serious challenger. Expect Leon Rose and their front office to offer at least $20 million per season, and do everything they can to persuade the 6’1 guard to take his talent to NYC.

Ultimately, Brunson re-signs with the Mavericks because the team is building something special in Dallas. They believe they are close to championship contention, and JB has a strong relationship with Luka Doncic and head coach Jason Kidd. The three can win together and that belief keeps Brunson in Dallas long-term.

The Dallas Mavericks cannot afford to try to save every penny when Jalen Brunson hits the open market. They need to make a strong offer and increase it if necessary or he could depart for a team that is willing to pay $80 million or more. It will be a story to watch this summer, and The Smoking Cuban will have all the latest rumors, so stay tuned.