Mavericks rumors: Pistons to be among the free agent suitors for Jalen Brunson

The Dallas Mavericks are going to face stiff competition to retain Jalen Brunson in free agency this summer. Brunson is an unrestricted free agent because of the way the organization structured his rookie contract as a second-round pick. His breakout fourth season has his value exceeding the maximum Dallas can offer in an extension before he hits free agency, meaning it will be an open race to see who can sign him this summer.

The New York Knicks will be a factor. Rumors suggest JB is their top free agent target, and Knicks president Leon Rose was the agent for the 25-year-old guard’s father, Rick Brunson, during his playing days. Dallas and New York will be far from the only teams gunning to sign Jalen Brunson this summer.

Hoops Hype’s Michael Scotto discussed all things Pistons with The Athletic’s James Edwards where he noted Detroit is interested in Brunson among other targets in free agency. This is not the first time the Pistons have been linked to the 6'1 guard, and here is a look at why Detroit is a threat to sign JB.

Dallas Mavericks rumors: Pistons to target Jalen Brunson in free agency

Detroit will have the cap space to sign Brunson outright this summer. The Mavericks can use his Bird Rights to exceed the salary cap in signing him, but Luka Doncic’s max extension kicks in next season. Will Mavs owner Mark Cuban be willing to pay the luxury to keep JB in Dallas?

The Pistons are a rebuilding team that needs another ball-handler and playmaker next to 2021 number one overall pick Cade Cunningham. If they are serious about signing Brunson, Detroit will likely come in with an offer over market value. The Mavericks are unlikely to match, given their luxury tax concerns. Does JB take the money over staying in Dallas to play next to Luka?

Where will Jalen Brunson end up next season? It is one of the many storylines to watch this offseason. The Dallas Mavericks will be interested in bringing him back, but can the two sides work out the financials? Stay tuned.