The Brooklyn Nets are currently in a transitional phase where they are focused on rebuilding their roster in order to compete for championships once again. The team is actively seeking to add more talent during this offseason, but a certain trade from the past has put them in a tough spot.
On Jan. 14, 2021, the Nets made a significant trade by acquiring James Harden from the Houston Rockets. In exchange, they sent Caris LeVert, Rodions Kurucs, three first-round picks, and four first-round pick swaps to Houston. Harden was brought to Brooklyn to join forces with Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving to chase a title.
However, after just one full season with the Nets, Harden expressed his desire to leave the team due to some internal drama. He was eventually traded to the Philadelphia 76ers in exchange for Ben Simmons. Since the trade, Nets fans have been reflecting on what could have been with a potential championship-winning big 3 lineup.
One of the most glaring reminders of the underwhelming outcome of the Harden trade is the fact that the Rockets now hold the third overall pick in the 2024 NBA Draft, courtesy of the Nets. Despite Brooklyn’s struggles in the 2023-24 season, Houston secured a top-3 pick through the NBA Draft Lottery.
Furthermore, the Nets do not have a pick in the upcoming draft, which highlights their need for young talent. The team had to make bold moves to contend for a title, but they are now facing the consequences of a closed championship window and lost draft assets.
The Rockets are actively looking to bolster their roster and have shown interest in reclaiming their traded picks from the Nets. They are willing to consider a trade involving Mikal Bridges or the picks acquired in the Durant deal. This situation serves as a painful reminder for the Nets of missed opportunities and potential lost success.