The Dallas Mavericks have ushered in a bit of a youth movement in recent years. They added to that group with the drafting of point guard Jalen Brunson.
It appears Brunson has already made quite the impression on head coach Rick Carlisle. According to Dwain Price of the Fort Worth Star-Telegram, Carlisle is pleased with what he has seen from the rookie thus far:
“Certainly zero disappointment. He's been terrific. He's an impressive guy.”
It is encouraging to see that Brunson has already started to give the Mavs some return on their draft picks. However, it should come as no surprise given his resume. Brunson was perhaps the most decorated player in this year's draft. He capped off his junior year at Villanova by earning National College Player of the Year honors en route his second National Championship, yet he still somehow managed to fall to Dallas in the second round.
Needless to say, Brunson's championship pedigree will be of use in Dallas. The Mavericks failed to compete for the postseason for the second year in a row. furthermore, the looming departure of future hall of fame power forward Dirk Nowitzki has left plenty of doubt regarding the state of the franchise. However, Dallas is hoping that their recent influx of young talent can help carry this team into the next era. That could very well start with getting point guard Dennis Smith Jr. another capable ballhandler to pair within the backcourt. Perhaps Carlisle is starting to lean toward making Brunson that guy.
Follow Us
Subscribe