A bidding war is brewing for Mavs restricted free agent Jalen Brunson. After breaking out in the NBA playoffs, Brunson's value exploded ahead of negotiations for a new contract. Now, Dallas must compete with other franchises to retain the services of the 25-year-old guard. Although the Mavs are serious about bringing back Brunson, the New York Knicks have emerged as a threat to steal him away.
Thursday, the Knicks moved Kemba Walker in a surprise draft night trade in order to clear cap space. According to a report from HoopsHype, this move was done with Brunson in mind.
“Rival NBA executives around the league believe the New York Knicks are “all in” to try and sign guard Jalen Brunson in free agency this summer,” Michael Scotto reports.
The report mentions Taj Gibson, Cam Reddish and Alec Burks as candidates to be traded or released for extra cap space. Scotto reported that Reddish was nearly moved on draft night and Burks was almost traded before it was announced he had foot surgery. Sources told HoopsHype Gibson could be waived soon.
So far, the Knicks have already sacrificed a decent draft class in their rumored pursuit of Brunson. It's going to take a high level of effort to pull Brunson away from Mavs owner Mark Cuban, who has previously expressed his desire and financial capability to keep him in Dallas.
The Knicks are exploring every avenue, even bringing on Brunson's father, Rick, as an assistant coach. New York's front office still has considerable space to clear before they can compete with the Mavs for Brunson, but every sign indicates that's exactly the plan.
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