Brooklyn Nets and Mikal Bridges: A Trade Unlikely to Happen
The Brooklyn Nets have made it clear: they are firmly keeping Mikal Bridges despite widespread trade rumors. From the Memphis Grizzlies to the Houston Rockets, teams around the league have made enticing offers, but the Nets have rejected them all. The Grizzlies reportedly dangled four first-round picks, and the Rockets offered their own picks back to the Nets. Brooklyn, however, remains steadfast in their decision — Bridges is not on the table.
It's intriguing how frequently new rumors and trade ideas involving Bridges emerge. This continuous swirl of trade speculation begs the question: what is fueling these rumors, 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. Adding to the difficulty, the Nets do not control their first-round picks through 2027. This puts them in a position where they need to either rebuild or find a way to contend, with rebuilding appearing to be the more likely scenario.
There was a belief that New York-born Donovan Mitchell might become available, and the Nets would have cap space during his potential free agency in 2025 to acquire him at a reasonable price. If Mitchell stays put, no other star from New York fits the bill as neatly. However, Bridges is a high-end 3-and-D wing with secondary shot creation abilities. His contract, valued at $48.2 million over the next two seasons, is notably affordable, making now the best time for the Nets to trade Bridges for maximum value.
Why the Nets Would Keep Him
Despite the trade rumors, there are solid reasons for the Nets to retain Bridges. If the Nets secure a star player, Bridges would thrive as a supportive cast member and could serve 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. Unexpected events could make other players available, enhancing the Nets' prospects.
Additionally, by retaining Bridges, the Nets maintain the outward facade of striving for immediate success. Admitting defeat from the Durant era by initiating a complete rebuild could have serious implications, including potential job losses within the front office. These high-stakes decisions could bias decision-making, leaning towards keeping Bridges to preserve jobs and reputations.
What Destinations Make Sense?
Should the Nets ever decide to trade Bridges, several teams would likely be interested. High-upside young players and draft picks are attractive to Brooklyn, and some teams stand out as potential suitors.
Houston Rockets
The Houston Rockets control the next four Nets first-round picks and hold the No. 3 pick in this year’s draft. Although the Rockets’ 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, which might be more palatable given their draft situation. 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, although the two teams haven't conducted a trade since 1983. If barriers between the franchises could be broken, the Knicks would certainly be interested in acquiring Bridges.
Utah Jazz
The Utah Jazz control their own picks and are looking to win now, having previously considered Jrue Holiday. They could offer an attractive package of draft picks, including their own, those from the Cavaliers, and the Timberwolves. Additionally, the Jazz have the financial flexibility to extend Bridges' contract early, potentially making them an appealing trade partner.
The Latest Reporting
Despite all the speculation, the Nets have shown "expressed zero interest" in trading Bridges this offseason. All trade inquiries, including those from the Grizzlies and Rockets, have been rebuffed. As it stands, there is no strong reason to believe the Nets will trade Bridges. For now, the Brooklyn Nets are intent on keeping him, reinforcing their commitment to building a competitive team while avoiding the pitfalls of a complete rebuild.