Official ‘24-25 Off-season Thread

[vincecarter4pres]

We just gave up too many uber skyrocketing high valuable picks to get only 2 of our picks back, to not pick top 7 at least twice, I’m sorry.

You do not pivot and act like those Phoenix and Dallas picks were whatever.

Anyone who knew anything understood what those picks were potentially going to become, and quickly too.

I get it’s no given we pick top 3 this year or next, and do not feel entitled to it or anything silly, but you cannot do things to intentionally incrementally improve, or a boneheaded trade for some ancient vet or fading star at the expense of even a chance next year.

Tbh, we should have shipped DLo out immediately upon trading for him.

And they need to swing for the fences no matter what pick we wind up with this summer. You don’t take that bum Duke center, or some other big stiff, or some safe low ceiling pick.

Marks needs to find a way to trade up if we get stuck somewhere like 8 or 9, and land someone like Tre Johnson, or Edgecombe, Jakucionis, etc, and keep tanking, using the cap space to trade for bad salary and future 1sts.

Ship out Cam J and grab another top 10 pick.

S&T Cam T.

ship out russell to who though? unless we are taking back multi-year salary half the league is up against aprons and cant aggregate to make deals and dont have expirings or TEs. we know there are the 4-6 other teams basically tanking.

i agree about the trade w/ suns picks and getting back their own pick. i understand it but i think they could have easily just sat on the phoenix picks because they had more long term upside. now, this draft is very strong and if they win the lotto into top 3 it will be a gamble worth making probably, but if they dont end up hitting the pick out of the park it probably ends up being that they overpaid.

To anyone who would have given up a 2nd and a useless player preferably on expiring.

Not kept a legitimate big minute NBA rotation player who can also run an efficient offense.

Seriously, there might not be a long term keeper on this entire roster. What was the point of instilling these good habits and developing a bunch of guys who will, or should be on other teams or out of the league within 2 seasons?

Why did we ship out an over performing Schröder and swap him for another legitimate engine?

You don’t trade one of the Cams or Clax for a garbage return just to rack up more losses, I totally get and agree with that. But what you also don’t do, is bring in this vet whose a known quarterback and can get red hot and also has numerous game winners in his resume and keep him past the deadline, during a season where the goal is to lose, and on a roster where maybe 2 of these guys will still be in Brooklyn in 2027 and won’t be key cogs. Or at least hopefully won’t, or we’re in real trouble.

[Netaman]

We just gave up too many uber skyrocketing high valuable picks to get only 2 of our picks back, to not pick top 7 at least twice, I’m sorry.

You do not pivot and act like those Phoenix and Dallas picks were whatever.

Anyone who knew anything understood what those picks were potentially going to become, and quickly too.

I get it’s no given we pick top 3 this year or next, and do not feel entitled to it or anything silly, but you cannot do things to intentionally incrementally improve, or a boneheaded trade for some ancient vet or fading star at the expense of even a chance next year.

Tbh, we should have shipped DLo out immediately upon trading for him.

And they need to swing for the fences no matter what pick we wind up with this summer. You don’t take that bum Duke center, or some other big stiff, or some safe low ceiling pick.

Marks needs to find a way to trade up if we get stuck somewhere like 8 or 9, and land someone like Tre Johnson, or Edgecombe, Jakucionis, etc, and keep tanking, using the cap space to trade for bad salary and future 1sts.

Ship out Cam J and grab another top 10 pick.

S&T Cam T.

ship out russell to who though? unless we are taking back multi-year salary half the league is up against aprons and cant aggregate to make deals and dont have expirings or TEs. we know there are the 4-6 other teams basically tanking.

i agree about the trade w/ suns picks and getting back their own pick. i understand it but i think they could have easily just sat on the phoenix picks because they had more long term upside. now, this draft is very strong and if they win the lotto into top 3 it will be a gamble worth making probably, but if they dont end up hitting the pick out of the park it probably ends up being that they overpaid.

To anyone who would have given up a 2nd and a useless player preferably on expiring.

Not kept a legitimate big minute NBA rotation player who can also run an efficient offense.

Seriously, there might not be a long term keeper on this entire roster. What was the point of instilling these good habits and developing a bunch of guys who will, or should be on other teams or out of the league within 2 seasons?

Why did we ship out an over performing Schröder and swap him for another legitimate engine?

You don’t trade one of the Cams or Clax for a garbage return just to rack up more losses, I totally get and agree with that. But what you also don’t do, is bring in this vet whose a known quarterback and can get red hot and also has numerous game winners in his resume and keep him past the deadline, during a season where the goal is to lose, and on a roster where maybe 2 of these guys will still be in Brooklyn in 2027 and won’t be key cogs. Or at least hopefully won’t, or we’re in real trouble.

teams have to salary match though. forget the 2nd round pick or any return, who was wanting russell and how were they salary matching him? bad teams aren't bothering to buy a rental and good teams weren't interested in russell for the last year+ when LA was shopping him. remember last year when we had no interest in trading dinwiddie for him because we didnt want the extra year? remember when the only way we could get rid of dinwiddie's contract was taking on schroder's extra year?

im not sure there was anyway to dump russell this year unless you took back someone else's salary dump to get him as an expiring just like dinwiddie last year.

[ecuhus1981]

We just gave up too many uber skyrocketing high valuable picks to get only 2 of our picks back, to not pick top 7 at least twice, I’m sorry.

You do not pivot and act like those Phoenix and Dallas picks were whatever.

Anyone who knew anything understood what those picks were potentially going to become, and quickly too.

I get it’s no given we pick top 3 this year or next, and do not feel entitled to it or anything silly, but you cannot do things to intentionally incrementally improve, or a boneheaded trade for some ancient vet or fading star at the expense of even a chance next year.

Tbh, we should have shipped DLo out immediately upon trading for him.

And they need to swing for the fences no matter what pick we wind up with this summer. You don’t take that bum Duke center, or some other big stiff, or some safe low ceiling pick.

Marks needs to find a way to trade up if we get stuck somewhere like 8 or 9, and land someone like Tre Johnson, or Edgecombe, Jakucionis, etc, and keep tanking, using the cap space to trade for bad salary and future 1sts.

Ship out Cam J and grab another top 10 pick.

S&T Cam T.

ship out russell to who though? unless we are taking back multi-year salary half the league is up against aprons and cant aggregate to make deals and dont have expirings or TEs. we know there are the 4-6 other teams basically tanking.

i agree about the trade w/ suns picks and getting back their own pick. i understand it but i think they could have easily just sat on the phoenix picks because they had more long term upside. now, this draft is very strong and if they win the lotto into top 3 it will be a gamble worth making probably, but if they dont end up hitting the pick out of the park it probably ends up being that they overpaid.

This precisely.

I see what many Nets fans see: Russell has on court value. I don't think we paid for his worth, and I don't think we were sentimental about bringing him back; he was just the convenient contract for our FA plans. There were just so few expiring contracts on the market of his size at the trade deadline, and so little interest from other teams in adding a small guard, that moving him was not only pointless, but difficult.

[vincecarter4pres]

We just gave up too many uber skyrocketing high valuable picks to get only 2 of our picks back, to not pick top 7 at least twice, I’m sorry.

You do not pivot and act like those Phoenix and Dallas picks were whatever.

Anyone who knew anything understood what those picks were potentially going to become, and quickly too.

I get it’s no given we pick top 3 this year or next, and do not feel entitled to it or anything silly, but you cannot do things to intentionally incrementally improve, or a boneheaded trade for some ancient vet or fading star at the expense of even a chance next year.

Tbh, we should have shipped DLo out immediately upon trading for him.

And they need to swing for the fences no matter what pick we wind up with this summer. You don’t take that bum Duke center, or some other big stiff, or some safe low ceiling pick.

Marks needs to find a way to trade up if we get stuck somewhere like 8 or 9, and land someone like Tre Johnson, or Edgecombe, Jakucionis, etc, and keep tanking, using the cap space to trade for bad salary and future 1sts.

Ship out Cam J and grab another top 10 pick.

S&T Cam T.

ship out russell to who though? unless we are taking back multi-year salary half the league is up against aprons and cant aggregate to make deals and dont have expirings or TEs. we know there are the 4-6 other teams basically tanking.

i agree about the trade w/ suns picks and getting back their own pick. i understand it but i think they could have easily just sat on the phoenix picks because they had more long term upside. now, this draft is very strong and if they win the lotto into top 3 it will be a gamble worth making probably, but if they dont end up hitting the pick out of the park it probably ends up being that they overpaid.

This precisely.

I see what many Nets fans see: Russell has on court value. I don't think we paid for his worth, and I don't think we were sentimental about bringing him back; he was just the convenient contract for our FA plans. There were just so few expiring contracts on the market of his size at the trade deadline, and so little interest from other teams in adding a small guard, that moving him was not only pointless, but difficult.

Could have easily bought him out.

Again, there really aren’t any important prospects on this team that needed him.

I’d be shocked if anyone on this roster is still on it 3 seasons from now besides maybe Clowney.

Why are we developing guys at the sake of wins?

[Netaman]

Could have easily bought him out.

Again, there really aren’t any important prospects on this team that needed him.

I’d be shocked if anyone on this roster is still on it 3 seasons from now besides maybe Clowney.

Why are we developing guys at the sake of wins?

jmo but you continue to way overvalue how much control teams have with the new lotto rules. they have no control of the lotto itself and the odds are **** even at #1. 86 out of 100 times the #1/2/3 teams aren't getting the #1 overall pick and 48/100 they arent even top 4.

finish 1 of the worst 3 and congrats, you get to flip a coin flip for a top 4 pick!

at 7th the odds only change to 92 out of 100 and 34.5/100 respectively.

clearly they were trying to tank and give themselves the best odds, but no long shot bet (which 14% obviously is) is worth making the franchise a non-competitive joke. that jordi has done as well has he has and proven himself to some extent is WAY more important than an extra few % to go from 8% odds to 12%. the odds of winning the lotto are beyond unlikely either way.

[vincecarter4pres]

Could have easily bought him out.

Again, there really aren’t any important prospects on this team that needed him.

I’d be shocked if anyone on this roster is still on it 3 seasons from now besides maybe Clowney.

Why are we developing guys at the sake of wins?

jmo but you continue to way overvalue how much control teams have with the new lotto rules. they have no control of the lotto itself and the odds are **** even at #1. 86 out of 100 times the #1/2/3 teams aren't getting the #1 overall pick and 48/100 they arent even top 4.

finish 1 of the worst 3 and congrats, you get to flip a coin flip for a top 4 pick!

at 7th the odds only change to 92 out of 100 and 34.5/100 respectively.

clearly they were trying to tank and give themselves the best odds, but no long shot bet (which 14% obviously is) is worth making the franchise a non-competitive joke. that jordi has done as well has he has and proven himself to some extent is WAY more important than an extra few % to go from 8% odds to 12%. the odds of winning the lotto are beyond unlikely either way.

I’m with you and understand to an extent. But there is no reason to purposely keep good vets that help the team as a whole perform well, who aren’t or shouldn’t be in the long term plans.

It’s great that Jordi looks like a special coach, and even on paper this team didn’t look like a bottom 3 dumpster fire, but also absolutely did not look like they were one hot streak away from the play-in.

But you cannot make the play-in. You just cannot risk making the playoffs and winding up with the 15th overall pick.

You shouldn’t even wind up better than 7th worst.

That is when the odds start getting significantly worse and more important, it gets trickier landing a high end prospect if you don’t make a jump or get pushed back once or twice.

I get it’s a lottery and the odds aren’t even exceptionally favorable for the worst team. I also get the #1 overall pick has been very hit or miss lately.

But it is simple math, as you explain. And it is more likely you stay top 5 the worse your record. And more often then not, the top players and prospects are drafted top 10, and usually top 7, or more so even, top 5.

[Netaman]

Could have easily bought him out.

Again, there really aren’t any important prospects on this team that needed him.

I’d be shocked if anyone on this roster is still on it 3 seasons from now besides maybe Clowney.

Why are we developing guys at the sake of wins?

jmo but you continue to way overvalue how much control teams have with the new lotto rules. they have no control of the lotto itself and the odds are **** even at #1. 86 out of 100 times the #1/2/3 teams aren't getting the #1 overall pick and 48/100 they arent even top 4.

finish 1 of the worst 3 and congrats, you get to flip a coin flip for a top 4 pick!

at 7th the odds only change to 92 out of 100 and 34.5/100 respectively.

clearly they were trying to tank and give themselves the best odds, but no long shot bet (which 14% obviously is) is worth making the franchise a non-competitive joke. that jordi has done as well has he has and proven himself to some extent is WAY more important than an extra few % to go from 8% odds to 12%. the odds of winning the lotto are beyond unlikely either way.

I’m with you and understand to an extent. But there is no reason to purposely keep good vets that help the team as a whole perform well, who aren’t or shouldn’t be in the long term plans.

It’s great that Jordi looks like a special coach, and even on paper this team didn’t look like a bottom 3 dumpster fire, but also absolutely did not look like they were one hot streak away from the play-in.

But you cannot make the play-in. You just cannot risk making the playoffs and winding up with the 15th overall pick.

You shouldn’t even wind up better than 7th worst.

That is when the odds start getting significantly worse and more important, it gets trickier landing a high end prospect if you don’t make a jump or get pushed back once or twice.

I get it’s a lottery and the odds aren’t even exceptionally favorable for the worst team. I also get the #1 overall pick has been very hit or miss lately.

But it is simple math, as you explain. And it is more likely you stay top 5 the worse your record. And more often then not, the top players and prospects are drafted top 10, and usually top 7, or more so even, top 5.

nobody wanted them to hold vets, including themselves. they got rid of schroder as quick as they could, same with dfs, bought out ben.

if anyone wanted DLo they would have traded him. Nobody has wanted DLo in the last 2 or 3 deadlines.

nobody wants them to finish outside the top 7, again including themselves. They are fielding a mostly D-league rotation most nights.

I think the only thing anyone is happy about is Jordi, and rightfully so. I dont think there is any chance they make the play in so im not worried about that.

[Netaman]

shifting gears slightly back to the main event of the nets calendar, the draft, givony continues to have this draft class shaping up well both at the top and in terms of depth.

The 2025 NBA draft continues to look stronger by the day, as the top of the class is solidifying with each of the projected top-five candidates delivering serious fireworks in January and February. Cooper Flagg, who is exceeding expectations with outstanding productivity for Duke, is the headliner, with Rutgers freshmen Dylan Harper and Ace Bailey and Baylor standout VJ Edgecombe flashing significant talent as well.

NBA executives tell us they are excited about not only the star power at the top but also the overall depth, as a number of freshmen have unexpectedly emerged as clear lottery talents, and the international class also appears better than advertised with as many as nine potential first-rounders.

An important final month of the college regular season looms as scouts want to see if players can finish strong and perform under pressure in some of the biggest games of their careers heading into conference tournaments and the Big Dance.

https://www.espn.com/nba/insider/story/_/id/43781826/2025-nba-mock-draft-predictions-team-intel-all-59-first-second-round-picks-players
this is from his latest mock a few days ago, it will be a let down if they dont get into the top 3-4 but he had Nets getting these 4:

6. Brooklyn Nets
Kon Knueppel, SG/SF, Duke
Freshman | TS%: 61.3%

Scouting report: Knueppel has played a significant role in Duke's 20-3 season, shouldering shot-creation duties while hitting 40% of his 3-pointers and holding his own defensively. He's an underrated passer, ranked as the third-best pick-and-roll player in this draft by Synergy Sports. He brings a unique combination of competitiveness, feel for the game and versatility that would make him a seamless fit on any NBA roster. Struggling against long-armed athletes at times in nonconference play, Knueppel's ability to maintain his efficiency in Duke's biggest games in March will play a role in where he gets drafted. -- Givony

NBA fit and intel: The Nets, armed with the league's most salary cap space (projected $60 million), are working with a clean slate roster-wise and could be interested in adding another top talent in the 2026 draft. Once the top names in this group are off the board, Knueppel's shooting and offensive feel could make him an appealing building block. His skill set would make sense for whichever direction the Nets choose, whether that's returning to relevance in the short term or waiting another year before cashing in their stockpile of assets. Part of the appeal with Knueppel is his near-universal fit as an off-ball scorer. -- Woo

20. Brooklyn Nets (via Milwaukee)
Will Riley, SG/SF, Illinois
Freshman | TS%: 53.2%

Scouting report: Riley started the season with a bang but cooled off significantly in December and January, struggling with his shooting, defense and finishing. He's beginning to show his talent again recently, hitting 3s, creating shots for himself and others, and demonstrating polished scoring instincts and creativity as a passer, which is intriguing for a 6-8 19-year-old. Riley's thin frame, porous defense and lack of explosiveness mean he'll likely be viewed as a long-term project, but his size, shotmaking prowess and court vision give him significant upside to grow into long term. If his recent surge continues, he'll likely be right back in the lottery in our next update. -- Givony

NBA fit and intel: The Nets own Milwaukee's pick with top-four protections and could wind up selecting three times in the 20s, meaning some consolidation of picks is likely in order. Having said that, Brooklyn sorely needs to reload on younger talent. Riley's production has been inconsistent, but his overall profile still holds plenty of appeal with the caveat that it's going to take patience as he develops his frame and adds the strength he needs to be effective at the highest level. Having so many picks should make it easier for the Nets to take a swing like this. -- Woo

23. Brooklyn Nets (via Houston)
Carter Bryant, SF/PF, Arizona
Freshman | TS%: 62.3%

Scouting report: Bryant doesn't play a significant role for Arizona, at just 17 minutes per game and a 16% usage rate. Still, he is making the most of his opportunities with strong efficiency (67% on 2-pointers), versatile defense, and plenty of highlight-reel moments. Analytic models point to him as one of college basketball's best freshmen. And at the same time, traditional eye-test scouts love his physical tools, 3-and-D profile, and willingness to play within the confines of a Wildcats team flush with depth and experience, even when he has outplayed the veterans. Bryant could be a major riser in the predraft process as teams get a closer look at his talent in workouts, but a big game or two to finish the season, indicating he isn't too much of a long-term project, certainly wouldn't hurt. -- Givony

NBA fit and intel: The Nets will end up with Houston's pick after the Rockets exercise their swap rights to Brooklyn's Suns pick. While it's unclear whether Brooklyn will actually make all four of their first-round picks (it's a reasonable guess they'll consolidate in some way), the Nets should be looking to invest in developmental players such as Bryant, who has shown more lately after a slow start to the season. It's hard to truly overindex on big, versatile defenders, particularly ones who can knock down an open shot. -- Woo


24. Brooklyn Nets (via New York)
Thomas Sorber, C, Georgetown
Freshman | TS%: 58.0%

Scouting report: Sorber has exceeded expectations as a freshman in an outsized role for Georgetown, allowing him to showcase his strong feel for the game, defensive versatility, length, physicality, and skill level as a pick-and-roll finisher. Not possessing elite physical tools in terms of size or explosiveness, and lacking experience like most freshmen, Sorber has struggled with scoring efficiency, turnovers and defensive mishaps versus top-level competition, suggesting another year in college might be beneficial for his long-term outlook. The dearth of centers in this class, and what that could mean for his draft stock, might make it difficult to take that kind of risk, though. Upcoming games against Creighton, UConn and Marquette, as well as the Big East tournament, should shed more insight into Sorber's standing and where he stacks up in this draft. -- Givony

NBA fit and intel: In this scenario, Brooklyn ends up with back-to-back picks and would select one of the draft's more intriguing young centers in Sorber after adding perimeter talent with its first three picks. Sorber's defensive instincts and all-around impact as a 19-year-old freshman portend some level of upside, despite a below-average athletic profile for his position. The Nets remain in the process of turning the roster over and could stand to get younger up front, giving them more latitude to seek trade value for incumbent starter Nic Claxton. -- Woo

[Papi_swav]

Heck No on Knueppel! not for our first pick, he seems more like a better JJ reddick type of player to me, he's def not a star or franchise type player. I'm fine with him as our 20th pick or so but definitely not a top 10 player in the draft imo. We need to trade up and get one of the top 4 guys. If we stay at 6 I would much rather Tre Johnson. I also prefer McNeely and I like Ben Saraf who they call the jewish Manu Ginobili

[Decipher]

Is it just me or does that analysis make all those guys sound like projects and potential busts?

Fortunately, Marks has a good drafting record

[TheNetsFan]

Depending on where our pick ends up, would anyone be in favor of trading up using future picks? Assuming we end up #3 or #4, it likely costs at least an unprotected '26 to move up to #1. If we're in the #6-8 range, it would cost more than that.

If the front office believes Flagg is a future superstar and you're within striking distance of a trade up, I think you have to open up the war chest to land him. Yes, you're giving up on a great '26 class, but you pay up for the guaranteed star when you can.

[vincecarter4pres]

Depending on where our pick ends up, would anyone be in favor of trading up using future picks? Assuming we end up #3 or #4, it likely costs at least an unprotected '26 to move up to #1. If we're in the #6-8 range, it would cost more than that.

If the front office believes Flagg is a future superstar and you're within striking distance of a trade up, I think you have to open up the war chest to land him. Yes, you're giving up on a great '26 class, but you pay up for the guaranteed star when you can.

No, especially not from 3.

Flagg is the clear cut #1 for a lot of reasons, the two biggest are his super high ceiling, yet attached is his outstanding floor.

But honestly, Bailey or Harper could quite easily windup the best player out of this draft.

And there are 2 guys in ‘26 I’d quite comfortably take over Flagg if those two and Flagg were in the same draft, and another couple I’d strongly consider over Harper at 5 and 6 if all 7 of these guys were in the same draft.

I am not down on Flagg like I’ve seen a handful on the draft board, but like another very small conglomerate on there, I have some definite questions on him actually being a legit outright superstar, or even Tatum level fringe guy. Like I know no prospect, and #1 pick is sure fire, so let’s take that out of the equation. But we’ve seen and are still seeing him labeled can’t miss generational, and even though he’s incredibly advanced and diverse for his age, is fiery as hell, athletic and has great measurables, there are a lot of times I watch him in a full game, and I’m like I’m not convinced he’ll have a Paul George level career.

And I’m also obviously not convinced Bailey or Harper are can’t miss either stars either, matter of fact they are riskier, but I do think just like Flagg they have can’t miss above average starter level floors, and especially Bailey, have almost significantly higher ceilings, just maybe a tad less likelihood they hit them, if that makes complete sense?

And to wrap it up, I’m not trading an unprotected ‘26 1st for the chance at any of them from the 4 slot or worse either.

So long story longer, I stay exactly where we land if it takes the ‘26 first to move up, unless our FO knows we’re getting a stud vet by next deadline anyway and refuses to pass up on said player.

[ecuhus1981]

Depending on where our pick ends up, would anyone be in favor of trading up using future picks? Assuming we end up #3 or #4, it likely costs at least an unprotected '26 to move up to #1. If we're in the #6-8 range, it would cost more than that.

If the front office believes Flagg is a future superstar and you're within striking distance of a trade up, I think you have to open up the war chest to land him. Yes, you're giving up on a great '26 class, but you pay up for the guaranteed star when you can.

29 teams in the league are going to make an offer to trade up for the#1 pick. It's no secret, Flagg is a special prospect.

Let's just say OKC offers the Philly pick if it falls to #7. Then, they add Jalen Williams and 4 other future 1sts. Can Brooklyn even muster a better offer? I don't think they can.

Trading up in the draft for a can't miss, generational talent is really unlikely. Our best hope for Cooper is to get lucky in the lottery. But honestly, I think there are a high number of franchise players in the draft, landing at #6 is not a terrible thing depending on how the picks happen.

[vincecarter4pres]

Depending on where our pick ends up, would anyone be in favor of trading up using future picks? Assuming we end up #3 or #4, it likely costs at least an unprotected '26 to move up to #1. If we're in the #6-8 range, it would cost more than that.

If the front office believes Flagg is a future superstar and you're within striking distance of a trade up, I think you have to open up the war chest to land him. Yes, you're giving up on a great '26 class, but you pay up for the guaranteed star when you can.

29 teams in the league are going to make an offer to trade up for the#1 pick. It's no secret, Flagg is a special prospect.

Let's just say OKC offers the Philly pick if it falls to #7. Then, they add Jalen Williams and 4 other future 1sts. Can Brooklyn even muster a better offer? I don't think they can.

Trading up in the draft for a can't miss, generational talent is really unlikely. Our best hope for Cooper is to get lucky in the lottery. But honestly, I think there are a high number of franchise players in the draft, landing at #6 is not a terrible thing depending on how the picks happen.

Bro there’s just no way OKC or anyone is offering anything close to that to jump from #7 to #1 for Cooper Flagg.

I feel like people have it really twisted thinking he’s gonna be the next LeBron.

I do not have a crystal ball, I am not the draftnik I once was, so I’m not claiming to be an expert and this is all obviously my personal opinion, but I just don’t see it.

I’m thinking stylistically more like a cross between Jaylen Brown and Tatum and level of player and impact just about, or a touch higher then whoever you think is better( for me it’s definitely Tatum, no questions asked).

I’ll be honest, I’m legit rooting for us to jump to 2 or 3 instead of 1, and draft Bailey.

He’s the guy I watch and I’m like this is gonna be a KD mixed with Paul George level superstar, with a Dirk Nowitzki/Kobe Bryant attitude and personality.

[TheNetsFan]

Depending on where our pick ends up, would anyone be in favor of trading up using future picks? Assuming we end up #3 or #4, it likely costs at least an unprotected '26 to move up to #1. If we're in the #6-8 range, it would cost more than that.

If the front office believes Flagg is a future superstar and you're within striking distance of a trade up, I think you have to open up the war chest to land him. Yes, you're giving up on a great '26 class, but you pay up for the guaranteed star when you can.

No, especially not from 3.

Flagg is the clear cut #1 for a lot of reasons, the two biggest are his super high ceiling, yet attached is his outstanding floor.

But honestly, Bailey or Harper could quite easily windup the best player out of this draft.

And there are 2 guys in ‘26 I’d quite comfortably take over Flagg if those two and Flagg were in the same draft, and another couple I’d strongly consider over Harper at 5 and 6 if all 7 of these guys were in the same draft.

I am not down on Flagg like I’ve seen a handful on the draft board, but like another very small conglomerate on there, I have some definite questions on him actually being a legit outright superstar, or even Tatum level fringe guy. Like I know no prospect, and #1 pick is sure fire, so let’s take that out of the equation. But we’ve seen and are still seeing him labeled can’t miss generational, and even though he’s incredibly advanced and diverse for his age, is fiery as hell, athletic and has great measurables, there are a lot of times I watch him in a full game, and I’m like I’m not convinced he’ll have a Paul George level career.

And I’m also obviously not convinced Bailey or Harper are can’t miss either stars either, matter of fact they are riskier, but I do think just like Flagg they have can’t miss above average starter level floors, and especially Bailey, have almost significantly higher ceilings, just maybe a tad less likelihood they hit them, if that makes complete sense?

And to wrap it up, I’m not trading an unprotected ‘26 1st for the chance at any of them from the 4 slot or worse either.

So long story longer, I stay exactly where we land if it takes the ‘26 first to move up, unless our FO knows we’re getting a stud vet by next deadline anyway and refuses to pass up on said player.

I'm not sure Tsai will have the patience for a second tank year. Even if he did, I can't imagine Jordi coaching a team to a worse record than we have now. I'm not saying I'd definitely do it, but if Flagg is worth the hype (I don't have time to watch college basketball anymore), I think you give up a sub-30% chance at a '26 top 4 pick to land that level of prospect.

[Netaman]

Is it just me or does that analysis make all those guys sound like projects and potential busts?

Fortunately, Marks has a good drafting record

the reality is that most of them are projects and potential busts. especially if the expectations are all-nba level players.

the last 3-4 drafts combined, the all-nba players from top 10 are who?

mobley, barnes, suggs 3 best from 2021, not all nba.
Banchero from 2022 is close.
Wemby from 2023 was generational, he's close.
2024 nobody close.

Flagg, Harper, and Bailey all look like they could fit the profile of all-nba players if everything goes perfectly and they hit their best case scenarios, but in all probability only 1 of them will. Maybe 2. For Flagg even best case is probably more Shawn Marion than Kawhi Leonard. For Harper that is probably more Brandon Roy than Jason Kidd. For Bailey it's probably more Chris Bosh than Tim Duncan.

Edgecombe has the Russ Westbrook look/athleticism so while the polish isnt there like the other 3 i see the upside.

as for Kon, I agree at #6 that would be something of a letdown but if he can be Gordon Hayward or Klay-ish i'd sign for that. If they only end up with a Joe Harris type that would suck, but I trust Marks is going to pick someone with legit upside. If that's not Kon then i think he'll pick one of the euro prospects, givony has traore at 8th overall even though he's had an up/down year. he's always felt like Marks pick to me.

[Netaman]

Depending on where our pick ends up, would anyone be in favor of trading up using future picks? Assuming we end up #3 or #4, it likely costs at least an unprotected '26 to move up to #1. If we're in the #6-8 range, it would cost more than that.

If the front office believes Flagg is a future superstar and you're within striking distance of a trade up, I think you have to open up the war chest to land him. Yes, you're giving up on a great '26 class, but you pay up for the guaranteed star when you can.

29 teams in the league are going to make an offer to trade up for the#1 pick. It's no secret, Flagg is a special prospect.

Let's just say OKC offers the Philly pick if it falls to #7. Then, they add Jalen Williams and 4 other future 1sts. Can Brooklyn even muster a better offer? I don't think they can.

Trading up in the draft for a can't miss, generational talent is really unlikely. Our best hope for Cooper is to get lucky in the lottery. But honestly, I think there are a high number of franchise players in the draft, landing at #6 is not a terrible thing depending on how the picks happen.

Bro there’s just no way OKC or anyone is offering anything close to that to jump from #7 to #1 for Cooper Flagg.

I feel like people have it really twisted thinking he’s gonna be the next LeBron.

I do not have a crystal ball, I am not the draftnik I once was, so I’m not claiming to be an expert and this is all obviously my personal opinion, but I just don’t see it.

I’m thinking stylistically more like a cross between Jaylen Brown and Tatum and level of player and impact just about, or a touch higher then whoever you think is better( for me it’s definitely Tatum, no questions asked).

I’ll be honest, I’m legit rooting for us to jump to 2 or 3 instead of 1, and draft Bailey.

He’s the guy I watch and I’m like this is gonna be a KD mixed with Paul George level superstar, with a Dirk Nowitzki/Kobe Bryant attitude and personality.

Flagg looks really exciting to me but I agree, my guess is he ends up more Shawn Marion than Kawhi. Elite #2/3 supporting player but not a true #1 with gravity.

Bailey and Harper look more like guys who can be the gravity guys, however also a lot lower floors than Flagg probably.

Would be pretty happy to get any of the 3. Edgecombe would be exciting but pretty distant 4th. the 5-10 is unclear to me but i expect whoever marks picks if they end there will end up with similar appeal/upside as Edgecombe.

btw separately, now that we know more of where picks are going to land i looked back at the houston/nets pick return deal. The Nets did better in that than I remembered:

BROOKLYN – The Brooklyn Nets have acquired:

their 2025 first round draft pick, negating a previously agreed to swap,
and their first round pick in 2026,

from the Houston Rockets in exchange for:
a 2025 first round pick swap (Houston/Oklahoma City for Phoenix),
the Phoenix Suns’ 2027 first round pick
and a the rights to the two most favorable of the Dallas, Phoenix and Houston first round picks in 2029. Brooklyn retains the least favorable of Dallas, Houston and Phoenix’s first round draft picks in 2029.

so net/net, the nets are going to gain whatever the difference is between Phoenix' 2025 pick and our own (should be 5-10 spots minimum) and the 2026 pick.

and they gave up 3 unprotected future picks (PHO27, 2 best in 2029) for those 2.

even though phoenix' pick this year is worse than expected as of now, that's a good deal. If Phoenix gets out of the play in, that pick will be 15th or higher and hopefully nets pick will end up top 4. the pho27/29 picks are good picks but the odds any end up top 5 are still very low. plus whatever happens with our 2026 pick (which will almost certainly be lotto again).

[TheNetsFan]

29 teams in the league are going to make an offer to trade up for the#1 pick. It's no secret, Flagg is a special prospect.

Let's just say OKC offers the Philly pick if it falls to #7. Then, they add Jalen Williams and 4 other future 1sts. Can Brooklyn even muster a better offer? I don't think they can.

Trading up in the draft for a can't miss, generational talent is really unlikely. Our best hope for Cooper is to get lucky in the lottery. But honestly, I think there are a high number of franchise players in the draft, landing at #6 is not a terrible thing depending on how the picks happen.

Bro there’s just no way OKC or anyone is offering anything close to that to jump from #7 to #1 for Cooper Flagg.

I feel like people have it really twisted thinking he’s gonna be the next LeBron.

I do not have a crystal ball, I am not the draftnik I once was, so I’m not claiming to be an expert and this is all obviously my personal opinion, but I just don’t see it.

I’m thinking stylistically more like a cross between Jaylen Brown and Tatum and level of player and impact just about, or a touch higher then whoever you think is better( for me it’s definitely Tatum, no questions asked).

I’ll be honest, I’m legit rooting for us to jump to 2 or 3 instead of 1, and draft Bailey.

He’s the guy I watch and I’m like this is gonna be a KD mixed with Paul George level superstar, with a Dirk Nowitzki/Kobe Bryant attitude and personality.

Flagg looks really exciting to me but I agree, my guess is he ends up more Shawn Marion than Kawhi. Elite #2/3 supporting player but not a true #1 with gravity.

Bailey and Harper look more like guys who can be the gravity guys, however also a lot lower floors than Flagg probably.

Would be pretty happy to get any of the 3. Edgecombe would be exciting but pretty distant 4th. the 5-10 is unclear to me but i expect whoever marks picks if they end there will end up with similar appeal/upside as Edgecombe.

btw separately, now that we know more of where picks are going to land i looked back at the houston/nets pick return deal. The Nets did better in that than I remembered:

BROOKLYN – The Brooklyn Nets have acquired:

their 2025 first round draft pick, negating a previously agreed to swap,
and their first round pick in 2026,

from the Houston Rockets in exchange for:
a 2025 first round pick swap (Houston/Oklahoma City for Phoenix),
the Phoenix Suns’ 2027 first round pick
and a the rights to the two most favorable of the Dallas, Phoenix and Houston first round picks in 2029. Brooklyn retains the least favorable of Dallas, Houston and Phoenix’s first round draft picks in 2029.

so net/net, the nets are going to gain whatever the difference is between Phoenix' 2025 pick and our own (should be 5-10 spots minimum) and the 2026 pick.

and they gave up 3 unprotected future picks (PHO27, 2 best in 2029) for those 2.

even though phoenix' pick this year is worse than expected as of now, that's a good deal. If Phoenix gets out of the play in, that pick will be 15th or higher and hopefully nets pick will end up top 4. the pho27/29 picks are good picks but the odds any end up top 5 are still very low. plus whatever happens with our 2026 pick (which will almost certainly be lotto again).

I've been saying this for a long time. The Nets did very well. In hindsight, with the Suns imploding sooner than anyone expected, and the moronic Dallas FO trading away Luka, they didn't do as well as originally thought.

Also, they gave up 2 unprotected future 1sts ('27 PHX and '29 PHX/DAL) and 2 unprotected future swaps ('25 HOU/PHX and '29 HOU/DAL/PHX). If one of PHX/DAL shockingly finishes better than Houston in '29, then the swap is not executed.

[Netaman]

I've been saying this for a long time. The Nets did very well. In hindsight, with the Suns imploding sooner than anyone expected, and the moronic Dallas FO trading away Luka, they didn't do as well as originally thought.

Also, they gave up 2 unprotected future 1sts ('27 PHX and '29 PHX/DAL) and 2 unprotected future swaps ('25 HOU/PHX and '29 HOU/DAL/PHX). If one of PHX/DAL shockingly finishes better than Houston in '29, then the swap is not executed.

yeah as usual the cosmos conspired against nets draft picks in a worst case scenario so far, but even in this worst case scenario where Phoenix is almost as bad as Net pick currently, it's very likely there's a 10 pick spread on the 2 picks and the Nets pick ending up somewhere top 6.

then in the future it's 3 picks 2-4 years out for 1 unprotected nets pick again likely to be top 10 next year.

if the nets pick this year ends up top 3 the trade was a home run almost regardless of whatever happens after. 2 unprotected swaps, 1 already executed painlessly, and 2 more distant future unprotected firsts is an obvious price for a top 3 pick now plus a second unprotected potential lotto pick.

they gave up 1 swap/1 future unprotected pick per lotto likely unprotected first.

the only big loss now is if somehow the phoenix pick wins lotto and nets are behind it at 6 or 8 or something like that. that seemed impossible and is still insanely unlikely. Phoenix is currently 1.5% for top pick and 7% for top 4, but i would imagine their odds of both will get worse over the rest of the season.

[Netaman]

looks like the offseason of giannis is about to commence.

still think the bucks would have been smart to try to get their 2025 pick and roll dice on a lotto pick in a strong draft. any future picks they get from a team with giannis are likely to not be lotto.

Nets and Knicks are top 2 odds for Giannis, no idea what it is the Knicks could actually trade for him since they have no picks? basically has to be towns for salary matching, plus the wizards pick which looks unlikely to convey in next 2 seasons. top 10 protection this year, top 8 next year, then turns into 2 second round picks. i think they can aggregate in the offseason so maybe they can add in deuce mcbride?

either way seems like nets could easily best that with a 2025 first plus 2 unprotected future firsts, salary relief, and maybe kick in a young roster players (clowney or wilson). plenty of picks left for nets to continue building around Giannis, Bucks get young assets plus a massive TPE they can use to basically accept anyone they want over the next year.

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