The Brooklyn Nets are sitting at 9-19 and 13th in the Eastern Conference-certainly not where they hoped to be at this point in the season. But despite the rocky start, there’s a sense that things might be turning.
After opening the year with one of the most porous defenses in recent memory, Brooklyn has started to show signs of life on that end of the floor. The improvement is real, but it also raises a bigger question: what direction does this team take with the trade deadline on the horizon?
Brooklyn’s front office has some tough calls to make. This is a team still firmly in rebuilding mode, and while they’ve got a few intriguing pieces, their trade cupboard isn’t exactly overflowing.
According to league insiders, the Nets’ most valuable assets heading into trade season are forward Michael Porter Jr., center Nic Claxton, and forward Haywood Highsmith. That trio represents the best shot Brooklyn has at making a meaningful move-whether that’s to accumulate more draft capital or bring in younger talent with upside.
Let’s start with Claxton. He’s drawn interest from the Golden State Warriors, who are reportedly in the market for a rim-running, switchable big man who can anchor a defense and contribute offensively in transition or as a lob threat.
Claxton checks those boxes. He’s mobile, he’s active on both ends, and he’s still just scratching the surface of what he can be.
The question now is what a team like Golden State-or any other suitor-would be willing to give up. As of now, there’s no concrete word on what kind of return the Nets could expect, but Claxton’s name will be one to watch as the deadline nears.
Then there’s Michael Porter Jr., who’s quietly having the best season of his career. He’s shooting the ball well, rebounding at a solid clip, and showing more consistency than ever before.
For a team looking to add scoring and size on the wing, Porter could be a compelling option. But again, the market is the wildcard.
The Nets aren’t in a rush to move him unless the right offer comes along-one that aligns with their long-term vision.
Haywood Highsmith rounds out the trio of top assets. He’s not a household name, but he’s the kind of versatile, defensive-minded forward that playoff teams often covet. His value might not be as high as Claxton’s or Porter’s, but in the right deal, he could be a useful piece.
And then there’s Cam Thomas. While he might not carry the same trade weight as the others, he could be the most likely Net to be moved.
He’s played in just eight games this season and is on a one-year, $6 million qualifying offer. That makes him a low-risk, high-reward target for teams looking for scoring punch off the bench.
ESPN’s Bobby Marks has already suggested that Brooklyn is expected to be active in exploring trades involving Thomas, and given his contract situation, it wouldn’t be a surprise to see him moved before any of the bigger names.
The Nets are in a familiar spot-straddling the line between building for the future and trying to stay competitive in the present. They’ve got a few cards to play, but how they choose to play them will say a lot about where this franchise sees itself heading.
Whether it’s Claxton, Porter, Highsmith, or Thomas, Brooklyn’s front office has decisions to make. And with the trade deadline creeping closer, the clock is ticking.