The Dallas Mavericks knew they’d have to really step it up to get through the first round of the playoffs without Luka Doncic.
With Doncic still recovering from an injury, other guys on the squad were told to fill the void.
One of those players – Jalen Brunson – is doing just that, and then some.
Brunson put up a wild 41 points, 8 rebounds, and 5 assists on Monday night to secure a 110-104 win against the Utah Jazz.
Brunson also shot 6-from-10 from beyond the three-point line.
The series is now tied 1-1, in larger part due to Brunson’s work.
Jalen Brunson is the first player in Mavericks history with 40 points & 0 turnovers in a playoff game.#dALLasIN | @dallasmavs pic.twitter.com/utGGkoIk26
— ESPN Stats & Info (@ESPNStatsInfo) April 19, 2022
He also broke a Dallas record to become the first player in Mavericks history with 40 points and 0 turnovers in a playoff game.
Is Brunson really giving this team a chance to make it into the second round?
Brunson Bringing It
Brunson’s 41-point game on Monday was preceded by another stellar one on Saturday when he scored 24 points, 7 rebounds, and 5 assists.
The point guard is becoming a very vital part of the team’s success and is becoming a breakout star of this postseason.
The good news is that if Doncic returns, Brunson can continue to produce a high output on the floor.
In fact, the one-two punch of Doncic and Brunson could be lethal for nearly any team.
Brunson has been playing in the league for several years now and is definitely having his biggest season yet.
All year long, he has shown flashes of brilliance and an ability to move fast, shoot well, and keep defenders on their toes.
The fact that he is taking it to a whole new level without Doncic in the postseason just goes to show how serious Brunson is about winning.
NEXT: Dirk Nowitzki Shares Hilarious Story About Luka Doncic