The Golden State Warriors, a dominant NBA franchise for over ten years, faced a crucial decision during the 2018 NBA Draft when they selected Jacob Evans with the 28th overall pick. Although Evans showed potential, his tenure with the Warriors lasted only two partial seasons before he was traded to the Minnesota Timberwolves. During his stint, Evans averaged 2.9 points and 1.2 rebounds per game, with shooting percentages of 33.9% from the field and 32.1% from beyond the arc over 57 games.
Meanwhile, the Dallas Mavericks picked Jalen Brunson at 33rd overall. The Warriors’ decision not to select Brunson meant passing on what has become one of the NBA’s most reliable and skilled guards. This missed chance has led to speculation about how differently NBA history might have unfolded.
The Rise of Jalen Brunson in Dallas and New York
Brunson quickly proved his value during his four years with the Mavericks, averaging 11.9 points, 3.0 rebounds, and 3.7 assists per game while shooting 49.4% overall and 37.3% from three-point range. As a key role player alongside superstar Luka Doncic, Brunson helped Dallas reach the 2022 Western Conference Finals and earned several standout moments.
“Jalen Brunson is the first player in Mavericks history with 40 points & 0 turnovers in a playoff game.” — ESPN Stats & Info
Since moving to the New York Knicks, Brunson’s performance has elevated him to superstar status. His recent playoff performances have raised eyebrows league-wide as he continuously breaks records and defies expectations.
“JALEN BRUNSON TAKES OVER GAME 1. 43 points 14-26 shooting 6 rebounds, 6 assists Leads NYK to 1-0 series leadBrunson becomes the FIRST PLAYER EVER with 40+ points and 5+ assists in 4 straight playoff games!” — NBA
The What-If Scenario of Brunson Joining Golden State
Fans often wonder how Jalen Brunson’s career and the Warriors’ legacy might have been impacted had Golden State selected him. Playing alongside two-time MVP Steph Curry could have blended Brunson’s steady scoring and playmaking with the Warriors’ dynamic offense, potentially altering playoff outcomes and championship runs.
While Jacob Evans did not develop into a cornerstone player, Brunson’s growth into a top guard in the league underlines the significance of those draft decisions. This narrative reflects on the unpredictability of talent evaluation and the long-term effects of draft picks on franchise success.
Reflections on Draft Choices and NBA Futures
Looking back, the Warriors’ missed opportunity to draft Jalen Brunson stands as a reminder of the delicate nature of building a championship team. Each decision, from selecting players to trades, can ripple through a team’s fortunes for years. Brunson’s rise with Dallas and New York highlights how one player’s trajectory can capture attention and redefine expectations.
In the future, how the Warriors approach their draft and player development may be influenced by this experience. For now, fans and analysts alike continue to reflect on what might have been, appreciating the evolving careers of players like Brunson and the enduring impact of those critical draft moments.