The NBA has launched a tampering investigation into the New York Knicks signing of Jalen Brunson. New York signed the free agent point guard to a four-year, $104 million contract this offseason.
There had been reports the Knicks were lining up to pursue Brunson as early as the end of the 2022 regular season. New York even sent a front office delegation to watch Brunson play for the Dallas Mavericks during the 2022 NBA Playoffs.
As early as a week ahead of free agency opening, reports came out that the Knicks and Brunson had agreed to the framework of the deal Brunson ultimately signed. New York made several cap-clearing moves to have the space to sign Brunson.
The NBA is also investigating the Philadelphia 76ers for tampering with free agent P.J. Tucker this offseason. James Harden opted out of a $47 million player option and took far less in re-signing with the Sixers. That enabled Philadelphia to reach agreements with Tucker and House. Tucker's agreement with the 76ers was several days in advance of free agency opening.