Jalen Brunson could be moved ahead of the trade deadline; Pistons reportedly interested in acquiring Mavericks’ point guard

A lot of NBA executives are reportedly expecting the Dallas Mavericks to move Jalen Brunson or Dorian Finney-Smith since it’s tough for the franchise to pay both as unrestricted free-agents.

According to Michael Scotto of Hoopshype, Brunson “has some admirers” in Detroit. Brunson is having a great season and he’s set for a substantial raise this offseason.

His current team could use its Bird Rights to sign Brunson to a long-term contract, but it would likely result in Dallas going over the threshold in the salary cap.

“I’ve heard Jalen Brunson has some admirers in Detroit. They have cap space and are a team to keep an eye on towards the summer. If Dallas is able to enter the mix for Jerami Grant and acquire him, don’t be surprised if either Brunson or Finney-Smith is involved in a trade package. If Dallas is going to part with either player, they’re going to want an asset that helps them win now.”

Michael Scotto,HoopsHype

The Mavericks will have some leverage with few teams expected to have significant cap space this summer, however, they will need to pay the luxury tax in order to keep Brunson in Texas.

Brunson averages 15.7 points, 5.5 assists and 3.8 rebounds through 47 games this season, playing alongside Luka Doncic in the Mavs’ starting lineup.

The Mavs amped up their game during the last month climbing to a 27-21 record, which rank them fifth in the tough Western Conference. If they part ways with either Brunson or Finney-Smith they will need to take back ‘win now’ players.