A former Mavericks executive is facing criticism for his views on Jalen Brunson during his time in Dallas. This scrutiny intensified, particularly from the father of the Knicks star.
Hallavos Volgaris, who worked with the Mavericks until May 2021, stirred controversy for advocating a trade involving Brunson back in 2020. Some have even suggested that he played a role in the team’s failure to keep Brunson in 2022.
As the former director of quantitative research and development for the Mavericks, Volgaris had shared his opinion on social media, during the 2020 NBA Draft, regarding Pacers player Tyrese Haliburton—whom he regarded as the standout of that year’s class. He was exploring possibilities to acquire Haliburton.
He acknowledged that Brunson was valued by the Mavericks and expressed a willingness to support a trade if it meant bringing Haliburton on board.
Volgaris mentioned that he and others didn’t foresee Brunson developing into the elite player he is now in 2026, which contributed to his initial trade consideration.
Although Volgaris departed the team after the 2021 season and was not involved in the decision to let Brunson go to the Knicks as a free agent, he continues to face backlash regarding that choice.
A few years back, during a Knicks-Lakers game, Volgaris recounted an uncomfortable encounter with Rick Brunson, Jalen’s father, who seemed to express his displeasure towards him throughout the matchup. After the game, Rick approached Volgaris to discuss the issue, and he described Rick’s approach as “overly aggressive.”
According to Volgaris, Rick felt compelled to confront him because he believed Volgaris was unfairly impacting his son’s career.
Despite the tension, Volgaris noted that they parted on amicable terms, exchanging hugs and handshakes.
Since leaving the Mavericks in 2022, Jalen Brunson has transformed into an All-NBA point guard, playing a crucial role in the Knicks’ revival, turning their fortunes around from a No. 11 seed to contenders for the NBA Finals.
Brunson has consistently averaged over 24 points per game during his time with the Knicks, leading the team to the playoffs for four consecutive years.
After scoring 30 points in Game 1 of the NBA Finals against the Spurs on Wednesday, he aims to help extend the Knicks’ lead in their next game on Friday night at 8:30 p.m.
