Brooklyn Nets and Mikal Bridges
The Brooklyn Nets have made it abundantly clear: Mikal Bridges is not going anywhere. Despite rampant trade rumors and enticing offers from teams across the league, the Nets have steadfastly refused to consider moving their star forward. From the Memphis Grizzlies to the Houston Rockets, several teams have presented appealing trade packages, but none have swayed Brooklyn's resolve.
Memphis even went so far as to offer four first-round picks, while Houston proposed returning their own selections to the Nets. Yet, Brooklyn remains uninterested. This raises an intriguing question: why do Bridges-related trade rumors continue to surface? And who could realistically acquire him if he were ever available?
Why He's in Trade Rumors
The Nets are currently in a precarious position. Last season, they fell short of even competing for a Play-In spot, and the prospects for significant improvement in the next season seem bleak. Adding to their woes, Brooklyn does not control its first-round picks through 2027. In light of these challenges, the team faces a critical decision: to rebuild or find a way to contend.
Rebuilding appears to be the more likely scenario. There was a belief that New York-born Donovan Mitchell might become available, and the Nets would have the cap space to pursue him in 2025. However, if Mitchell remains with his current team, no other New York-born star appears to be a logical fit for Brooklyn.
Bridges' appeal is undeniable. He is a high-end 3-and-D wing with secondary shot creation abilities, and his contract is notably affordable at $48.2 million over the next two seasons. The idea of trading Bridges for maximum value while his stock is high makes sense, especially considering the current state of the team.
Why the Nets Would Keep Him
Despite the rationale for moving Bridges, there are compelling reasons for the Nets to retain him. Should the Nets acquire a star player, Bridges would excel in a supportive role, serving as an excellent No. 2 option. Finding a top player is significantly more challenging than securing a reliable sidekick like Bridges.
Furthermore, the Nets have accumulated numerous future picks from other teams, which could prove instrumental in acquiring a star. Unexpected events could also make other marquee players available. By keeping Bridges, the Nets maintain the outward appearance of striving for immediate success, rather than admitting defeat following the Durant era. Such decisions can have serious implications, including potential job losses within the front office, which may influence decision-making.
What Destinations Make Sense?
Several teams would benefit greatly from acquiring Bridges, offering high-upside young players and draft picks that could entice Brooklyn.
Houston Rockets
The Rockets control the next four first-round picks of the Nets, as well as the No. 3 pick in this year's draft. While their initial offer of returning their picks for Bridges was rejected in February, the No. 3 pick now holds greater appeal. Trading Bridges to Houston could set Brooklyn up for a tanking strategy, aligning with the Rockets' desire to win now and fit their defensive identity.
New York Knicks
A potential reunion of Villanova alumni—pairing Bridges with Jalen Brunson, Donte DiVincenzo, and Josh Hart—creates an enticing narrative. The Knicks possess an array of picks and players to facilitate a trade. However, it's worth noting that the two teams haven't conducted a trade since 1983, which could present a hurdle.
Utah Jazz
The Jazz control their own picks and are focused on winning, having previously considered Jrue Holiday. Utah could offer an attractive package of draft picks, including their own, as well as those from the Cavaliers and Timberwolves. The Jazz also have the financial flexibility to extend Bridges' contract early, making them a viable destination.
What is the Latest Reporting?
As of now, the Nets have shown "expressed zero interest" in trading Mikal Bridges this offseason. All trade inquiries, including those from the Grizzlies and Rockets, have been firmly rejected. There is no strong indication that the Nets will change their stance on Bridges anytime soon. For now, it appears Brooklyn is committed to keeping him as a key part of their future plans.