Brooklyn Nets and Mikal Bridges
The Brooklyn Nets are resolutely keeping Mikal Bridges, despite the persistent trade rumors that continue to swirl around him. Several teams across the league, ranging from the Memphis Grizzlies to the Houston Rockets, have made enticing offers for Bridges, yet the Nets have repeatedly rejected these overtures. Notably, Memphis offered four first-round picks, while Houston proposed returning their own picks to Brooklyn. Still, the unwavering stance of the Nets signals that Bridges is not on the trading block.
The frequent emergence of new rumors and trade ideas involving Bridges prompts the question: What is fueling this continuous speculation? Moreover, who could realistically acquire him, if he were to become available?
Why He's in Trade Rumors
The Brooklyn Nets currently find themselves in a precarious situation. Last season, their performance fell short of even competing for a Play-In spot, and the current roster shows little promise of making significant improvements in the upcoming season. Compounding their difficulties, the Nets do not control their first-round picks through 2027, leaving them with a stark choice: rebuild or find a way to contend immediately.
Rebuilding seems like the more plausible option. There was previously speculation that New York-born Donovan Mitchell might become available, with the Nets potentially having cap space to acquire him during his free agency in 2025. However, if Mitchell stays with his current team, no other New York-based star appears to fit the Nets' needs as neatly.
Bridges, a high-end 3-and-D wing with secondary shot creation abilities, has been the subject of trade rumors partly because of his affordable contract, which is valued at $48.2 million over the next two seasons. Consequently, the best time to trade Bridges for maximum value might be now.
Why the Nets Would Keep Him
Nevertheless, there are compelling reasons for the Nets to retain Bridges. If the Nets manage to secure a star player, Bridges would thrive as a supportive cast member and an excellent No. 2 option. Finding a top-tier player is more challenging compared to finding a reliable sidekick like Bridges.
The Nets have also accumulated numerous future picks from other teams, which could be instrumental in acquiring a star player should one become available. Moreover, retaining Bridges allows the Nets to maintain the outward impression that they are striving for immediate success. Engaging in a complete rebuild would be tantamount to admitting defeat from the Durant era, a franchise-altering decision that could carry serious implications, including potential job losses within the front office. Such factors may influence decision-making and make the front office hesitant to trade away a core player like Bridges.
Potential Destinations
If the Nets were to consider trading Bridges, several teams would likely emerge as suitors, offering high-upside young players and draft picks in return, which would be attractive to Brooklyn.
Houston Rockets
The Houston Rockets control the next four first-round picks of the Nets and hold the No. 3 pick in this year’s draft. Although their initial offer of picks for Bridges was turned down in February, the No. 3 pick now holds greater appeal. Trading Bridges to Houston could position Brooklyn for a tanking strategy. Additionally, the Rockets are eager to win now, and Bridges fits their desired defensive identity.
New York Knicks
A reunion of Villanova alumni, pairing Bridges with Jalen Brunson, Donte DiVincenzo, and Josh Hart, presents an enticing narrative for the New York Knicks. The Knicks have an array of picks and players to trade. However, it is worth noting that the two teams have not conducted a trade since 1983.
Utah Jazz
The Utah Jazz control their own picks and are looking to win now, as evidenced by their previous consideration of acquiring Jrue Holiday. Utah could offer an attractive package of draft picks, including their own, as well as those from the Cavaliers and the Timberwolves. Moreover, the Jazz have the financial flexibility to extend Bridges’ contract early, making them a potential trade partner.
The Latest Reporting
Recent reports suggest 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 is currently no strong reason to believe the Nets will trade Bridges; they appear intent on keeping him for the foreseeable future.