“I started having a monster season and I went to them" - Jalen Brunson says he wanted to be in Dallas for a long time, claims Mavericks were too late in making official offer
Jalen Brunson's move to the New York Knicks has been one of the most-talked-about deals this offseason. The Knicks signed the guard on a four-year, $104 million deal from the Dallas Mavericks.
Brunson had been an integral part of the Mavs since they drafted him in 2018. He initially came off the bench, but found a starting spot under coach Jason Kidd.
The 25-year-old had a breakout campaign during the 2021-22 season. He averaged 16.3 points and 4.8 assists per game, both of which were career highs.
Many teams were interested in acquiring him from the Mavs, but in the end, the New York Knicks won the race.
During a recent appearance on "The Old Man and the Three" podcast, Jalen Brunson stated that he did try and approach the Mavericks for a new contract. He revealed that Dallas took a lot of time making him an official offer and that he could not wait for them endlessly.
"When we were talking about the number from Dallas obviously like I loved my time in Dallas, I wanted to be in Dallas, I thought I was gonna be in Dallas for a long time.
"As you said I started having a monster season and I went to them before they officially offered it to me and by then it was too late, it was like business came out knocking on the door, so it was kind of just at least look."
Jalen Brunson said he did not plan on leaving Dallas, but New York came in with an offer that was tough to refuse.
"You know, I had to do my due diligence and look and see what was out there. Honestly, people may not believe it, I talked about my dad since like Year 1 or 2, 'We're gonna be here for the rest of our career' that's what I thought."
“Having my dad, Thibs, guys who’ve pushed me since I was a kid….It had a large impact on my decision”
— Jalen Brunson on joining the Knicks, coach Tom Thibodeau and assistant coach / dad Rick Brunson. More at youtu.be/y47nsnMmt4w https://t.co/73qAwlANlK
Jalen Brunson is introduced as a Knick https://t.co/CTopXPhRCD
How impactful can Jalen Brunson be with the New York Knicks?
Jalen Brunson is one of the most talented young guards in the league. Despite playing alongside a ball-dominant player like Luka Doncic in Dallas, Brunson made his mark.
Jalen Brunson on bringing the Knicks back to the NBA Finals:
“I think the city deserves that” https://t.co/aDnI1pNMRE
The 25-year-old has the ability to make tough shots and serve as the team's primary ball-handler when needed.
The Knicks needed a dynamic presence at the guard position after their move for Kemba Walker failed. With Jalen Brunson coming in, the Knicks have a guard who can score and make plays for the team. They are also in the mix to sign Donovan Mitchell and if that happens, the Knicks will have an exciting roster.
Utah Jazz have “agreed upon” a deal to trade Donovan Mitchell, per this podcast: #Knicks #Jazz https://t.co/CuemVI0fdh
They also have a smart coach in Tom Thibodeau. The team missed out on the playoffs last time, but could well be dark horses next season if things fall into place.