Did the Mavericks make the right move with Jalen Brunson at the trade deadline?

Was keeping Jalen Brunson the right move for the Dallas Mavericks?

Brunson has played too well this season to deal him for a first-round pick. He proved he can be a starter on a playoff team. There are questions about how he will perform in the postseason as an undersized guard, but JB is a high-level role player with plenty of room to grow.

The 25-year-old keeps improving and is a fantastic fit next to superstar Luka Doncic. The two have a strong off-court relationship and are both winners. Brunson is shooting 50.2 percent from the field, 35.7 percent on his threes, and 80.8 percent from the free-throw line. His ability to play on or off the ball and just make winning plays is a massive reason why Dallas sits fifth in the West.

The Mavs need to re-sign JB to a long-term deal for this to be the right move. If he walks and leaves Dallas with zero in return, not trading him at the deadline will look like a mistake. Yes, the Mavericks will get this season’s playoff run, but short of winning a championship, it won't be worth losing Brunson for zero compensation.

The Dallas Mavericks believe they can re-sign Jalen Brunson, and the lack of cap space around the league makes it likely they will at least be able to sign-and-trade the 25-year-old if he decides to depart via free agency.