Why The Brooklyn Nets Do The Deal
Frankly, this might be a no-brainer for the Brooklyn Nets if D’Angelo Russell and Naz Reid weren’t both on expiring deals. Unfortunately, trading Ben Simmons for two potential rentals is a gamble.
Otherwise, they’re getting two quality players for Simmons. They already have experience with Russell – in fact, he had the best seasons of his career with the organization. He’s a massive defensive downgrade from Simmons, and doesn’t quite have his floor vision either.
Still, he’s close in that respect. Russell is a fantastic pick-and-roll ball-handler, and not least of all because, unlike Simmons, he’s a willing three-point shooter. That makes him easier to build a functional offense around.
Meanwhile, Reid is arguably one of the most underrated players in the NBA. He’s a floor-spacing big man who offers rim protection as well. In a situation where he’s not buried behind Karl-Anthony Towns in a depth chart, it’s not hard to envision him as a starting-caliber player.
LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Updates On Ben Simmons, Brooklyn Nets & Minnesota Timberwolves
Suppose he emerges as one on the Brooklyn Nets. Is acquiring Simmons worth the pain it’ll cause them to see that happen?
