NBA rumors: Jalen Brunson is now said to be signing with the Knicks; PJ Tucker is likely to move to Sixers

With the NBA Finals and the 2022 NBA Draft now on the books, the next big thing on the league calendar is free agency. And while it doesn’t technically kick off until June 30th at 6:00pm ET, it’s clear that teams are already active. Here’s a look at some of the latest information.

Brunson now expected to sign with Knicks

Jalen Brunson was one of the breakout stars of the playoffs as he helped the Dallas Mavericks reach the Western Conference Finals for the first time since 2011. In addition, when Luka Doncic was sidelined early in the first round, he showed that he can be more than a complement.

As a result, he’ll be earning a big payday this summer, especially as the Mavericks and the New York Knicks get into a bidding war for his services. Shortly after the Mavericks were eliminated, all signs pointed to Brunson returning to Dallas. Now, however, the tide has turned.

Marc Stein reported on Tuesday that there is “growing resignation” within the Mavericks organization that Brunson will sign with the Knicks. Later in the day, the Knicks cemented their chances of getting Brunson when they sold Alec Burks and Nerlens Noel to the Detroit Pistons, freeing up even more space for the cap. They are expected to offer Brunson a deal worth $110 million over four years. by Chris Haynes.

Tucker will likely join the Sixers

It appears that PJ Tucker’s tour of Eastern Conference candidates will resume next season. After winning the title with the Milwaukee Bucks in 2021 and reaching the Eastern Conference Finals with the Miami Heat in 2022, Tucker is expected to join the Philadelphia 76ers.

While it’s not surprising that Tucker is messing with another competitor, it’s a bit surprising to see that he’s set to land a long-term deal worth $30 million over three years. after Keith Pompey. While he can still defend at a high level and posted a career-high 41.5 percent from 3-point land last season, he turns 40 in the final year of this deal. If he can stay healthy, he’ll help the Sixers, but that’s no guarantee for a player in his late 30s who’s physically like Tucker.

Zubac conceded

One of the most underrated big men in the league, Ivica Zubac often flies under the radar on a Los Angeles Clippers team with so many big names. However, the team is aware of his importance and have acted quickly this summer to keep him in the long run.

Zubac only had one year left on his contract, which was a team option. Rather than exercise it, the Clippers signed Zubac to a new deal worth $33 million over three years. according to Adrian Wojnarowski. Zubac averaged 10.3 points and 8.5 rebounds last season, both career highs, and shot 62.6 percent from the field. He expects to play a big role next season as the Clippers hope to return to the ranks of title contenders with a healthy Kawhi Leonard.