Brooklyn Nets and Mikal Bridges
The Brooklyn Nets are steadfast in their decision to keep Mikal Bridges despite a flurry of trade rumors and tempting offers from various teams across the NBA. From the Memphis Grizzlies to the Houston Rockets, numerous franchises have made compelling proposals for the versatile forward.
Memphis reportedly put four first-round picks on the table, while Houston offered the Nets their own picks back. However, Brooklyn has consistently turned down all these overtures. The unwavering stance that Bridges is off-limits raises intriguing questions about the persistent trade speculation surrounding him and who could realistically acquire him if he were indeed available.
Why He's in Trade Rumors
The Nets are navigating a complicated scenario. Last season, the team fell short of even competing for a Play-In spot. The current roster shows little promise for significant improvement heading into the next season. Additionally, Brooklyn doesn’t have control over their own first-round picks through 2027, putting them in a predicament where they need to choose between rebuilding or finding a way to contend.
Rebuilding seems like the more probable path. There was speculation that New York-born star Donovan Mitchell might become available, and the Nets would have the cap space to acquire him during his potential free agency in 2025 at a reasonable price. However, if Mitchell remains with his current team, no other New York-born star fits the bill quite like he does.
Mikal Bridges is a highly coveted high-end 3-and-D wing with secondary shot creation abilities. His contract is notably affordable, valued at $48.2 million over the next two seasons. Given his skill set and contract, the best time to trade Bridges for maximum value would be right now.
Why the Nets Would Keep Him
There are compelling reasons for the Nets to retain Bridges. Should Brooklyn manage to secure a star player, Bridges would be an excellent No. 2 option and would thrive as a supportive cast member. Additionally, finding a top-tier player is considerably more challenging than securing a reliable sidekick such as Bridges.
The Nets have amassed a wealth of future picks from other teams. These picks could be instrumental in acquiring a star player, especially if unexpected events make other players available. Moreover, by keeping Bridges, the Nets maintain an outward facade of striving for immediate success. A complete rebuild would be tantamount to admitting defeat from the Kevin Durant era, a move that could have serious implications, including potential job losses within the front office. This could understandably bias decision-making toward retaining Bridges.
What Destinations Make Sense?
Bridges would be a valuable addition to several teams across the league. High-upside young players and draft picks are particularly attractive to Brooklyn.
Houston Rockets
The Rockets control the next four Nets first-round picks and hold the No. 3 pick in this year’s draft. Their initial offer, which included returning the Nets' picks, was turned down in February. However, the No. 3 pick now holds even greater appeal. Trading Bridges to Houston could align with a tanking strategy for Brooklyn, while the Rockets are eager to win now and Bridges fits their desired defensive identity.
New York Knicks
A Villanova reunion that pairs Bridges with Jalen Brunson, Donte DiVincenzo, and Josh Hart is an appealing narrative. The Knicks possess an array of picks and players to make a strong trade offer. However, it’s worth noting that the two teams haven’t conducted a trade since 1983, hinting at a potential hurdle for any deal to materialize.
Utah Jazz
The Jazz control their own draft picks along with those from the Cavaliers and the Timberwolves. Utah's desire to win led them to previously consider Jrue Holiday. They could offer an attractive package of picks and have the financial flexibility to extend Bridges' contract early. This combination makes the Jazz a realistic destination if Bridges were to be made available.
The Latest Reporting
Despite the various offers and ongoing rumors, the Nets have shown "expressed zero interest" in trading Bridges this offseason. All trade inquiries, including those from the Grizzlies and Rockets, have been consistently rebuffed. At present, there is no strong reason to believe the Nets will part ways with Bridges. For now, the Brooklyn Nets remain committed to keeping him as a crucial piece of their puzzle.