Brooklyn Nets Receive: C Steven Adams, G/F Dillon Brooks, G De’Anthony Melton, 2023 First-Round Pick (MEM), 2024 First-Round Pick (GSW), 2025 First-Round Pick (MEM)
Memphis Grizzlies Receive: F Kevin Durant
This is a package befitting a rebuilding club for the Brooklyn Nets. If they’re moving on from the Slim Reaper, that might be exactly what they become.
It also gives them an opportunity to split the difference between bottoming out and contending. With Ben Simmons and Kyrie Irving still on the roster, they’re receiving some quality supporting pieces in this deal. Brooks is a physical defender who can create his own shot. Melton is a prototypical off-the-bench sparkplug.
The hardest sell might be the best player they’re receiving. Steven Adams is an extremely valuable role player. He’s also a less than ideal fit alongside Ben Simmons as a non-shooter.
The Nets could search for a creative way to make that dynamic work, or look to move Adams to a team in need of a traditional big man.
LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: These 3 Teams Should Attempt To Trade For Nets’ Kevin Durant
Still, the most appealing aspect of this deal for the Nets is the draft capital. They’re light on draft picks after swapping James Harden for seven first-round picks/pick swaps with the Houston Rockets. They can use their re-stacked war chest to make a move for another star.
On the other hand, they may refuse to move Kevin Durant unless they’re getting a star in return. In that event, these two clubs could enlist a third team to help facilitate a deal.
