The Brooklyn Nets hold an incredible five first-round picks in the 2025 NBA Draft after receiving one in the Kristaps Porzingis trade. They currently have the 8th, 19th, 22nd, 26th, and 27th overall picks in the first round. Not only that, but the Nets also hold the 36th overall pick in the second round. All things considered, it is unlikely that the Nets will make every selection they have in the draft. Adding six rookies to a team can bring up possible issues in terms of development and playing time. With all those picks, the Nets have the flexibility to make multiple draft-day moves. Let’s dive into the possible moves that the Nets can make during the draft.
Exploring Nets Draft Moves After Kristaps Porzingis Trade
Option #1: Trading Up Into The Lottery
The most obvious choice for the Nets is to package a majority of those later picks in a trade to secure a second lottery pick. Unquestionably, the Nets are the most equipped to make such a move considering their draft capital this year. A draft move like that will allow the Nets to consolidate their lesser picks into a higher-quality player. That would free up more roster spots and playing time for the incoming rookies. Furthermore, a move like that will help the Nets avoid paying multiple players around the same time after their rookie scale deals.
A team like the Blazers has shown in the past to trade late lottery picks, and could be a possible trade partner in obtaining a second lottery pick. Another possible trade partner could be Toronto, considering their need to shed salaries. The Nets can get the 9th overall pick from Toronto in exchange for some of the first-rounders, as well as taking on those large contracts. Of course, Brooklyn could try to make a play for Philadelphia’s 3rd overall pick or even San Antonio’s 2nd overall pick. They could package the 8th pick and some of their other firsts in exchange for the chance to move into the top three.
Option #2: Obtaining Future Picks
Another possible option for the Nets is to flip some of their picks in this draft for future picks. The Nets could kick the can down the road by taking the later picks and trading them for future assets. That would allow them to retain value without having to make those picks. That would help them space out the number of rookies they take on in a season. Teams like the Celtics or Lakers, who can use more young talent on their rosters, can be potential partners. They can send young players and picks for the chance to draft in the first round this year. As for Brooklyn, they can still get value out of those later picks, even if they don’t make the selection themselves.
The Last Word
It is more than likely that Brooklyn will move some of their first-rounders in the draft this year. They simply cannot roster that many rookies without it causing issues for the team. Considering that, the Nets have the opportunity to make moves on draft day. Consolidating their picks into a second or better lottery pick can help them add higher-quality talent to their roster. Trading some of their firsts for future assets can also be worthwhile, as they can retain value for the future. Regardless, the Nets are the team to watch in terms of moves on draft day.
Featured image: © Wendell Cruz-Imagn Images
The post Exploring Nets Draft Moves After Kristaps Porzingis Trade appeared first on Last Word On Basketball.