The Brooklyn Nets made a significant move by trading away seven players, two future first-round picks, and four second-round picks to acquire Mikal Bridges from the Phoenix Suns. This deal is notable enough that it could have had more severe implications for the Nets.
Mikal Bridges’ Contract Situation
Bridges will become an unrestricted free agent after this season, meaning he cannot sign an extension with either team until July 1st next year. A source close to the situation stated, "We needed him now. If we were going to give up so much talent for someone who might leave as soon as next summer, we needed him now."
The Nets’ Rebuilding Strategy
The Nets are in a rebuilding phase and are likely to start over again when Kevin Durant leaves via free agency at the end of his contract in June 2026. In preparation for this transition, they are parting with a core group of talented young players who had shown promise before injuries affected their seasons last year.
Key Players in the Trade
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Cam Johnson:
- Has played well alongside Bridges on offense.
- Shows untapped defensive potential due to injury issues.
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Dorian Finney-Smith:
- A crucial piece in the trade, valued for his contributions on both ends of the court.
- Consistently shoots above 35% from three-point range throughout his career.
- Averages at least six rebounds per game every season since entering the league in 2017-18.
Recent Performance and Fan Sentiment
Nets fans were left disappointed after significant losses against the Dallas Mavericks and the Golden State Warriors prior to this trade. The team’s current situation has left fans feeling disheartened about the ongoing operations within the basketball team.
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