Why It Makes Sense For The Brooklyn Nets
For the sake of argument, assume that both Ben Simmons and Anthony Davis return to form next season. In that event, Davis is the player the Brooklyn Nets would prefer to have.
That’s no knock on Simmons. More so, the Nets aren’t in dire need of the ball-handling and playmaking he provides. Kyrie Irving is likely to be their primary initiator, and Kevin Durant is far from an off-ball specialist as well.
The Nets could use an interior presence. Having Davis’ low block scoring would diversify this Nets offense. More importantly, his rim protection would be invaluable to a Nets team sorely lacking in that department.
The Nets are also choosing to strengthen their defense at the expense of spacing here. With Irving and Durant on the roster, it might be an exchange worth making. Losing Harris stings, but Stanley Johnson has emerged as a stout, versatile defensive wing.
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As for Talen Horton-Tucker, the Nets may feel they can unlock his potential. If not, they could move him in a separate package, aiming to make up for the loss of Harris’ three-point accuracy.
Having said all that, Davis is the primary target here. Pairing Durant and Irving with an elite big man could transform this Brooklyn Nets team into a juggernaut.