Making the Case: Brooklyn Nets
The Brooklyn Nets had to make the midseason deal with the Philadelphia 76ers to get rid of James Harden. He was nursing a hamstring injury and taking his time returning to the court. It was unknown what his plans were, but it seemed as though Harden was not going to play for Brooklyn.
What the Nets didn’t know was that Ben Simmons was also going to remain off the court.
Initially, the fit seemed like a good one because Simmons would not have to score the ball with Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving on the offensive end of the floor. Simmons could take on a different role and remain a strong defender to help Brooklyn. What the Nets are learning is that Simmons is not worth much off the floor.
Instead, they could opt for a big man who has taken the next step in recent years. Ayton averaged 17.2 points and 10.2 rebounds per game for a team that finished with the best record in the league.
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Brooklyn could stand to get stronger down low. Joe Harris was injured this season, which did not help the Nets from three-point range. Other than that, the team has not done much to put a reliable core around its duo with stars. Ayton has proven that he is a next-level big man and will be for years to come.
At 23 years old, Ayton could come to Brooklyn and be a centerpiece for the franchise. This would give the team necessary balance on both ends of the floor.
