Jalen Brunson is the linchpin of the Dallas Mavericks playoff hopes

Can Jalen Brunson maintain his efficiency for the Dallas Mavericks in the playoffs?

Brunson is a talented player that has won at every level. He led Villanova to two NCAA championships before being drafted by the Mavericks. JB also won a state title and has helped the Mavs get to the playoffs two but soon-to-be three straight years. There is no questioning his skills, but can he produce efficiently enough to stay on the floor in the postseason?

Mavericks head coach Jason Kidd is going to have options. Luka Doncic will play close to 40 minutes per game with Spencer Dinwiddie and Brunson fighting for minutes flanking him. The Mavs could use all three ball-handlers if they go small. Expect Maxi Kleber and Dwight Powell to battle for minutes at the five with Dorian Finney-Smith and Reggie Bullock playing massive minutes on the wings.

Brunson playing over 30 minutes and maintaining his starting role will be tied directly to how he shoots and what he scores. If JB keeps shooting over 50 percent and netting 16-plus per game, his minutes will likely creep up to around 35 in the postseason, but a drop-off in production will force his playing time to plummet.

The 6’1 guard should be able to shoot and score efficiently, but can he hold his own on the defensive end enough to stay on the floor?