Brooklyn Nets Receive: G Bradley Beal
Washington Wizards Receive: G Kyrie Irving, 2023 First-Round Pick (BKN), 2027 First-Round Pick (BKN)
Both the Brooklyn Nets and Washington Wizards could justify simply swapping stars this summer.
The Nets would have no trouble justifying this deal. With Kevin Durant aging, they need to be squarely in win-now mode.
In acquiring Bradley Beal, they replace Kyrie Irving with a player they can count on to show up as long as he’s physically able. If Ben Simmons can do the same, this trade should put them back in contention for 2022-23.
On the other hand, the Wizards are taking a risk here. If Irving is ready and able to suit up, it could pay off. They’re swapping a 28-year-old for a 30-year-old who’s roughly his equal in terms of on-court production, and getting two first-round picks in the process.
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Of course, if Irving finds a new cause to keep him from playing basketball, this deal really blows up in Washington’s face. If they’re interested in bringing Irving in to team up with Bradley Beal, there may be a means to achieving that end.
It’s still going to cost them. Irving may be unreliable, but he’s too talented for the Nets to give away.
