Should Mavericks worry about losing Jalen Brunson if Knicks start clearing cap space?

New York Knicks could be clear space to acquire someone other than Jalen Brunson

Creating cap space at this point in the calendar will not be easy. The Thunder have room to take on about $24 million in salary, but that would need to happen before Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s extension kicks in on June 30. After that, cap space will be one of the most coveted assets in the league.

Making any move to offload $20-plus million in salary at this point with cost the Knicks a first-round pick. Are they going to part with the 11th overall selection in Thursday’s draft or a future first to try to land Brunson?

There is pressure on the New York Knicks after failing to reach the playoffs in 2022. President Leon Rose and head coach Tom Thibodeau could both be on the hot seat if the Knicks do not nail the offseason and get off to a fast start next season. New York needs to shake up their roster, so offloading contracts could be the first piece of that.

Brunson may be the Knicks' top target, but the panic meter should only rise the slightest amount if the Knicks start clearing cap space. Yes, New York hired Jalen’s father to be an assistant coach under Thibs, but that may not be enough to land the 25-year-old free agent.