2. Brooklyn Nets

The Brooklyn Nets pulled off a huge blockbuster trade ahead of the deadline, acquiring Ben Simmons, Seth Curry, Andre Drummond, and two first-round picks in exchange for James Harden and Paul Millsap. It is a deal that will upgrade the entire rotation, as Brooklyn can fill some of the gaps with the players they acquired. But, they should be aggressive on the buyout market as well.

Given Kyrie Irving’s status as a part-time player, upgrading the point guard spot would make a lot of sense for the Nets. When Irving isn’t playing in home games, Patty Mills is the starting point guard with Jevon Carter and Cam Thomas backing him up. Not the best group to be heading into three or four games a playoff series with as the point guard depth.

DJ Augustin would be an excellent addition to that group. His 3-point shooting is something the Nets can’t get enough of and they need more playmakers. His relationship with Kevin Durant is another drawing point.

Augustin and Durant played collegiately at Texas during the 2006-07 season. The two have a strong relationship, which could ultimately help the Nets in bringing him aboard. In addition, Augustin is vaccinated and boosted, so they will not have to deal with the headaches they are when it comes to Irving.

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With a full roster, someone will have to be waived by the Nets to make room for Augustin. It would be a smart move, as Augustin is a sizable upgrade as a reliable point guard and gives them much-needed insurance at the position should Irving remain ineligible.