As the Brooklyn Nets wrap up their 2025-26 NBA season, they find themselves in the midst of a rebuilding phase, hoping to snag their next franchise star in the 2026 NBA Draft. Balancing the development of young talent with a desire to win games has been the name of the game for Brooklyn, but the lottery holds the promise of a brighter future.
This season, the Nets brought in a fresh crop of talent from the 2025 NBA Draft, including guards Egor Demin, Nolan Traore, and Ben Saraf, as well as forwards Drake Powell and Danny Wolf. Each rookie has had their moments, but the team is still searching for that extra spark to propel them into serious contention.
While these rookies are expected to play roles next season, Brooklyn's current standing in the Lottery is a testament to their struggles this year. With the NCAA Tournament's Sweet 16 on the horizon, let's dive into five players who could catch the Nets' eye as potential draft picks, according to Tankathon's Big Board.
Cameron Boozer, F, Duke
Boozer stands out as one of the top prospects in the 2026 class, thanks to his versatility and ideal size for an NBA power forward. Despite his impressive skill set, some concerns about his athleticism have surfaced during recent NCAA Tournament matchups against Siena and TCU. These could potentially influence his draft position for a team like the Nets.
Nate Ament, F, Tennessee
At 6'10" and 207 pounds, Ament offers enticing size and perimeter shooting, making him a strong Lottery pick candidate. While his stock might not align perfectly with Brooklyn's position, his ability to add scoring depth to the frontcourt could make him an attractive option, especially if he shines against Iowa State.
Yaxel Lendeborg, F, Michigan
Lendeborg has turned heads at Michigan, showcasing his prowess as a three-level scorer for one of the nation's top teams. Though projected to go later in the Lottery, his readiness to contribute at 23 years old makes him a compelling prospect for the Nets, who could use his immediate impact.
Joshua Jefferson, F, Iowa State
Jefferson, another experienced prospect at 22, has demonstrated his multifaceted game, including playmaking from the power forward position. Despite an ankle injury in the NCAA Tournament's first round, if he's able to play, his matchup against Ament and Tennessee could be pivotal in solidifying his draft stock.
Evans
Projected as a second-round pick, Evans brings valuable perimeter shooting to the table, something the Nets could certainly use. Standing at 6'6" and 180 pounds, his slight frame hasn't stopped him from being an effective driver to the rim. Brooklyn is no stranger to developing players who need to bulk up for the rigors of the NBA.
As the Nets look to the future, these prospects could be key pieces in their ongoing quest to rebuild and compete at the highest level.