Brooklyn Nets and Mikal Bridges: The Untouchable Star
The Brooklyn Nets have made it abundantly clear that Mikal Bridges is not for sale, despite a flurry of trade rumors circling around the talented forward. Teams across the NBA, including the Memphis Grizzlies and Houston Rockets, have presented enticing offers, yet the Nets are steadfast in their commitment to keeping Bridges on their roster.
Memphis attempted to sway the Nets with a whopping four first-round picks, while Houston tempted them with an offer of their own future picks that originally belonged to Brooklyn. Yet, all these offers have been met with firm rejections. Bridges is simply not on the trading block.
The question arises: Why do trade speculations around Bridges persist? And if he were to become available, who could realistically acquire him?
Why He's in Trade Rumors
The Nets find themselves in a tricky situation. Last season, they didn't even compete for a Play-In spot, and the current roster does not inspire much hope for significant improvement in the near future. To complicate matters, Brooklyn does not have control of its first-round picks through 2027, creating a tricky scenario where they need to either rebuild or find a way to contend soon. Given these constraints, rebuilding appears to be the more viable option.
There was once a glimmer of hope that New York-born Donovan Mitchell might become available. The Nets would have had cap space during his potential free agency in 2025, making it feasible to acquire him at a reasonable price. Should Mitchell remain with his current team, no other New York-based star fits quite so seamlessly.
Bridges is an elite 3-and-D wing who also possesses secondary shot creation abilities. Additionally, his contract is relatively affordable, valued at $48.2 million over the next two seasons. From a strategic standpoint, now might be the optimal time to trade Bridges for the best return.
Why the Nets Would Keep Him
Despite the trade buzz, there are strong arguments for the Nets to retain Bridges. If Brooklyn can secure a star player, Bridges would excel as a supportive cast member, making him an ideal No. 2 option. Securing a top-tier player is a far more challenging endeavor compared to finding a dependable sidekick like Bridges.
The Nets have accumulated a plethora of future picks from various teams, which could prove instrumental in acquiring a star player. Unexpected events could also lead to the availability of players who were previously off the market. By holding on to Bridges, the Nets project an image of striving for immediate success, avoiding the complete rebuild that would signify a surrender from the Durant era — a move fraught with implications, including potential job losses within the front office.
What Destinations Make Sense?
If the Nets were to entertain trade offers, Bridges would undoubtedly draw interest from numerous teams. Brooklyn would likely seek high-upside young players and valuable draft picks in return.
Houston Rockets
The Rockets control the next four Nets first-round picks and hold the No. 3 pick in this year’s draft. Though their initial offer of returning Brooklyn's picks for Bridges was turned down in February, the No. 3 pick carries greater allure. Trading Bridges to Houston could position Brooklyn for a tanking strategy, aligning with Houston’s aim to win now. Bridges fits their desired defensive identity perfectly.
New York Knicks
A trade to the New York Knicks would create a storybook Villanova reunion, pairing Bridges with Jalen Brunson, Donte DiVincenzo, and Josh Hart. The Knicks boast a wealth of picks and players to offer in a trade, although the two teams haven’t conducted a trade since 1983, casting doubt on the likelihood of such a move.
Utah Jazz
The Utah Jazz control their own picks and are eager to win now, having previously considered trading for Jrue Holiday. Utah could muster an attractive package of draft picks, including those from the Cavaliers and Timberwolves. They also have the financial flexibility to extend Bridges' contract early, providing an incentive for both parties.
The Latest Reporting
Despite the speculative whirlwind, the latest reports indicate that the Nets have shown "zero interest" in trading Bridges this offseason. All trade inquiries, including substantial offers from the Grizzlies and Rockets, have been rebuffed. As it stands, there is no strong reason to believe Bridges will be traded. The Nets are intent on keeping him for now, maintaining their stance amidst the swirling rumors.