?A Killer Walking?: 1 Year After Betrayal From Luka Doncic?s Mavericks, $104 Million Knicks Star Earns Former Coach?s Respect

Dallas Mavericks drafted Jalen Brunson in 2018. Brunson helped the Mavericks reach the playoffs in 2022, where they eventually lost to the Utah Jazz in the first round. However, he had a strong playoff performance where he averaged 27.8 points per game. The promising young guard was eventually betrayed by the Mavs. During 2022 free agency, the team didn’t offer him a big payday, and the Knicks lured him with a four-year $104 million contract.

This move has since proven to be a turning point in Brunson?s career, as he has managed to establish himself as a key player for the Knicks. He has recently earned the respect of his former coach Jamahl Mosley, who has a deep admiration for his competitive spirit.?

Brunson earns respect from Mosley and Doncic?

When Mosley first coached Brunson in Dallas, he saw something special in him. Having known Brunson and his father for years, Mosley recognized his unparalleled competitiveness. Mosley reminiscences ?You could see there?s something in him that?s more competitive than people realize. There?s a professionalism he?s had for so long in the way he pushes his teammates, pushes himself, and the way that he works. He wants to be the first in the gym, and he wants to be the last out.?.?

He further described Brunson as a ?killer walking,? in there. And Brunson proved him right in his last season. Jalen signed a four-year, $104 million contract with the New York Knicks in free agency. He averaged 20.1 points, 4.2 assists, and 3.6 rebounds per game, helping the Knicks reach the playoffs for the first time in eight years.

Doncic speaks highly of Brunson

Brunson’s success in New York came as a bit of a surprise. Many people expected Brunson would be relegated to a secondary role. However, he proved his worth with the Knicks. He became the primary scorer and playmaker for the team. A role that Luka had taken on for the Mavs.??

Doncic has spoken highly of Jalen, both during and after their time together as teammates. In an interview, Doncic said, “He was a great player for us. He was a great guy off the court. He was always there for me. I’m really happy for him that he got a big contract, but I miss him a lot.”

READ MORE: Having Ditched Mavericks For Magic, 44yo NBA Coach Shares The Highest Esteem For ?Artist? Luka Doncic

A year after what many considered a setback after he was traded from the Mavs, Brunson has emerged stronger, proving his critics wrong and earning the respect of his peers and coaches.?

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