Brooklyn Nets and Mikal Bridges
The Brooklyn Nets remain steadfast in keeping Mikal Bridges despite widespread trade rumors. Teams across the NBA, from the Memphis Grizzlies to the Houston Rockets, have made enticing offers, including multiple first-round picks. Memphis reportedly dangled four first-round picks, while Houston offered their own picks back to the Nets. Yet, Brooklyn has continuously rejected these offers, making it clear that Bridges is not on the table.
It's intriguing how frequently new rumors and trade ideas involving Bridges emerge. This begs the question: What is fueling this continuous swirl of trade speculation, and 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 weren't even good enough to compete for a Play-In spot, and the current roster shows little promise of significant improvement for the next season. To make matters worse, the Nets don't control their first-round picks through 2027, creating a dilemma between rebuilding and finding a way to contend. Rebuilding appears as the more likely scenario.
There was a belief that New York-born Donovan Mitchell might become available, with the Nets having cap space during his potential free agency in 2025 to acquire him at a decent price. However, if Mitchell stays put, no other star from New York fits the bill as neatly.
Bridges stands out as a 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 these factors, the best time to trade Bridges for maximum value could be right now.
Why the Nets Would Keep Him
There are solid reasons for the Nets to retain Bridges. Should they secure a star player, Bridges would thrive as a supportive cast member, potentially serving as an excellent No. 2 option. Finding a top player is more challenging compared to finding a reliable sidekick like Bridges.
The Nets have accumulated numerous future picks from other teams, which could be instrumental in acquiring a star player should one become available. Retaining Bridges allows the Nets to maintain the outward impression of striving for immediate success. Performing a complete rebuild would be seen as an admission of defeat from the Durant era, a franchise-altering decision with serious implications, including potential job losses within the front office. These factors could bias decision-making towards keeping Bridges.
What Destinations Make Sense?
Bridges would be a valuable addition to many teams, with high-upside young players and draft picks being 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. While their initial offer of their picks for Bridges was turned down in February, the No. 3 pick now holds greater appeal. Trading Bridges to Houston could set Brooklyn up for a tanking strategy. The Rockets are keen on winning now, and Bridges fits their desired defensive identity.
New York Knicks
A Villanova reunion pairing Bridges with Jalen Brunson, Donte DiVincenzo, and Josh Hart is an enticing narrative. The Knicks have an array of picks and players to trade. However, the two teams haven't conducted a trade since 1983, adding a layer of complication to potential dealings.
Utah Jazz
The Jazz, controlling their own picks and looking to win, previously considered Jrue Holiday and could offer an attractive package of draft picks. These would include their own and those from the Cavaliers and Timberwolves. Additionally, the Jazz have the financial flexibility to extend Bridges' contract early, making them a feasible trade partner.
What is the Latest Reporting?
The Nets have shown "expressed zero interest" in trading Bridges this offseason, with all trade inquiries, including those from the Grizzlies and Rockets, being rebuffed. There is no strong reason to believe the Nets will trade Bridges, as the organization is intent on keeping him for now.
Bridges' status with the Brooklyn Nets remains a focal point of NBA trade rumors, yet the organization seems committed to retaining him as they navigate their path forward.