The Nets are still struggling this season. At 16-20, they are currently ranked ninth in the Eastern Conference. Despite a better-than-expected start, Brooklyn has struggled in recent games, losing 11 out of 14. The team is in an unusual predicament as it approaches the February 8th trade deadline. The Nets don’t have their own first-round pick until 2028, so bottoming out appears unlikely. At the same time, Brooklyn has the ability to acquire key draft picks from the teams in coming years. Here are some of the Nets’ potential trade candidates before the deadline.
Brooklyn Nets Trade Candidates Before the Deadline
Dorian Finney-Smith
Dorian Finney-Smith has been extremely productive for the Nets this season. Finney-Smith is an ideal role player. He plays good defense, can guard numerous spots, and is making three-pointers at a career-high percentage this season (41.1%).
Finney-Smith is signed for $13.3 million this season and $14.3 million next year, with a player option for the 2025-26 season. His contract is not only reasonable, but a potential suitor may sign him for multiple seasons. Depending on the market during the deadline, Sean Marks may receive a mid-level draft pick in exchange for Finney-Smith. You can never have enough three-dimensional wings!
Potential Fits: Lakers, Kings, Mavericks, Suns, Bucks
Lonnie Walker IV
Lonnie Walker returned to the court on Friday after missing several games due to a hamstring issue. Walker has one of the best starts to a season in his career. Walker is averaging 13.8 points in just 18 games, shooting 48% from the field and 45.8% from three (a career high). He made a significant contribution to the Nets’ strong start to the season.
🎯 Leagues Top 10 Snipers
These are the leagues top 10 players on Unguarded Catch & Shoot Attempts (min 30 att)
1. Jayson Tatum (93.2% eFG%)
2. Lonnie Walker (91.7%)
3. Doug McDermott (90.4%)
4. Cason Wallace (87.2%)
5. Malik Beasley (85.1%)
6. Tyrese Maxey (85.1%)
7. Anthony…— Parlay Chef (@ParlayChef) January 7, 2024
Walker is on an expiring contract worth $2.3 million for the 2023-24 season. His low contract may make him incredibly mobile and valuable in the trade market. Walker, who is 6-foot-4, can guard both point guards and shooting guards and will not be intimidated by taller wings in switch situations.
Walker gave the Los Angeles Lakers vital playoff minutes last season and can contribute to any contender this season.
Potential Fits: Bucks, Lakers, Knicks, Nuggets, Mavericks
Nic Claxton
Nic Claxton, a previous second-round pick, continues to perform well year after year. Claxton has proven himself as an invaluable rim protector. Rim protectors are becoming increasingly scarce in the current NBA as more shooters take the court. Claxton is averaging 12.0 points, 9.8 rebounds, and 2.3 blocks per game this season.
Claxon’s absence would worsen the Nets’ defense. However, he is set to receive a pay hike in the offseason, making him a potential trade target. The Nets have invested heavily in Cameron Johnson and Mikal Bridges as potential long-term players.
The Brooklyn Nets still want to build around Mikal Bridges, per @wojespn
“I believe Brooklyn’s intent remains to build and add talent around Mikal Bridges.” pic.twitter.com/Ckwj7ypgAU
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) January 3, 2024
It is clear the Nets do not have a championship-caliber roster as currently constructed, but assets returned in a potential Claxton trade could prove to be vital in a trade for a disgruntled star down the road.
Potential Fits: Clippers, Kings, Knicks
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