Brooklyn Nets and Mikal Bridges
The Brooklyn Nets appear resolute in their decision to keep Mikal Bridges despite persistent trade rumors circulating around the NBA. From the Memphis Grizzlies to the Houston Rockets, many teams have made compelling offers to acquire the talented wing. Memphis even went as far as to offer four first-round picks, while Houston attempted to sweeten the deal by offering their own picks back to the Nets.
Yet, Brooklyn has continuously turned these offers down. Bridges is not available for trade. This persistent interest raises an intriguing question: What fuels the ongoing trade speculation involving Bridges? Who could realistically acquire him if he were available?
Why He's in Trade Rumors
The Nets find themselves in a complex situation. Last season, they struggled to even compete for a Play-In spot, and the current roster shows little promise of significant improvement for the next season. Compounding these difficulties, the Nets do not control their first-round picks through 2027, leaving them at a crossroads: They need to either rebuild or find a way to contend.
Rebuilding appears the more likely scenario. There was speculation that New York-born Donovan Mitchell might become available in the future. With the necessary cap space expected during his potential free agency in 2025, the Nets could acquire Mitchell at a more reasonable price. However, if Mitchell stays put, no other star from New York fits the bill as neatly.
Bridges, however, presents a unique asset. He is a high-end 3-and-D wing capable of secondary shot creation, making him a valuable player in today's NBA. Moreover, his contract is quite affordable, valued at $48.2 million over the next two seasons. Given these details, the best time to trade Bridges for maximum value could arguably be right now.
Why the Nets Would Keep Him
Nonetheless, there are compelling reasons for the Nets to retain Bridges. If the Nets manage to secure a star player, Bridges would thrive as a member of the supportive cast. He could effectively serve as a No. 2 option, a role that is more challenging to find than a primary star.
The Nets have accumulated numerous future picks from other teams, which could be instrumental in acquiring a star player through trade. Unexpected events, such as player discontent or changes in team dynamics, could make top-tier talents available in the future. By holding onto Bridges, the Nets can maintain the appearance of striving for immediate success.
Opting for a complete rebuild would be tantamount to admitting defeat from the Durant era. Such franchise-altering decisions can have significant implications, including potential job losses within the front office. This potential for bias in decision-making cannot be overlooked.
What Destinations Make Sense?
Bridges would be a valuable addition to many teams. The Nets would likely seek high-upside young players and draft picks in return.
Houston Rockets
The Rockets have control over the next four Nets first-round picks and hold the No. 3 pick in this year’s draft. Their prior offer of their picks for Bridges was turned down in February, but the No. 3 pick now holds greater appeal. Trading Bridges to Houston could set Brooklyn up for a tanking strategy, something that might be more aligned with a full rebuild. The Rockets are keen on winning now, and Bridges fits their desired defensive identity.
New York Knicks
A move to the Knicks would create an enticing narrative, reuniting him with former Villanova teammates Jalen Brunson, Donte DiVincenzo, and Josh Hart. The Knicks possess an array of picks and players they could offer to the Nets. However, it is worth noting that the two teams haven't conducted a trade since 1983, making this scenario more speculative.
Utah Jazz
The Jazz control their own picks and have shown an interest in winning now, as evidenced by their consideration of Jrue Holiday. Utah could potentially offer an attractive package of draft picks, including their own as well as those from the Cavaliers and the Timberwolves. Additionally, the Jazz have the financial flexibility to extend Bridges' contract early.
What is the Latest Reporting?
From all the latest reports, it seems that the Nets have "expressed zero interest" in trading Bridges this offseason. All trade inquiries, including those from the Grizzlies and Rockets, have been rebuffed. There currently appears to be no strong reason to believe that the Nets will trade Bridges. The organization seems intent on keeping him for now, maintaining a stance that supports their current strategic direction.