Rumors: Mavericks keeping Jalen Brunson beyond trade deadline

The Dallas Mavericks are gearing up for what could be a franchise-altering trade deadline. Fans have heard the rumors of the front office moving Jalen Brunson or Dorian Finney-Smith before they reach free agency this summer. Will owner Mark Cuban be willing to pay the luxury tax to keep both players? Do the Mavs move one before Feb. 10 to avoid them walking in the offseason?

Brunson is in the middle of a breakout fourth NBA season. He has cemented himself as a starter and key shot-creator next to superstar Luka Doncic. JB averages 15.7 points, 5.6 assists, and 3.7 rebounds in 31.4 minutes per game on the season as he continues to improve.

Brunson has earned himself a hefty payday in the offseason. Rumors suggest he is searching for $80 million, but do not expect him to leave Dallas anytime soon. ESPN’s Tim MacMahon was on the Lowe Post podcast on Jan. 31 where he discussed the Brunson trade rumors, and fans can get the latest here.

Rumors: Dallas Mavericks keeping Jalen Brunson beyond trade deadline

MacMahon shared his intel on the Brunson situation, which featured a telling quote that fans can see below.

"I have been assured they will not move Brunson before the trade deadline unless it is, and I quote, ‘a what the bleep are they thinking type of offer’."

McMahon continued that JB’s small salary and the team’s lack of shot creation means it does not make sense for the Mavericks to deal Brunson. The 6’1 guard is outplaying his value, and Dallas needs his ability to create shots. They need more playmaking, so moving away a key piece of their current group would be a significant setback.

Marc Stein noted (subscription required) that the Mavericks are rebuffing offers on both Jalen Brunson and Dorian Finney-Smith ahead of the Feb. 10 trade deadline on Monday afternoon. Dallas is looking to add pieces and improve their roster. They want to build a contender around Luka Doncic and appear to have zero interest in taking a short-term step backward.

There will be plenty more Dallas Mavericks rumors ahead of the trade deadline, so keep it locked to The Smoking Cuban for all the latest.