Why The Brooklyn Nets Do The Deal 

This is a less obvious move for the Nets. At the same time, it does open up some avenues for them. 

In pairing Ben Simmons and Anthony Davis, this team could give themselves a defensive identity. Assuming Kyrie Irving gets back to playing basketball soon, that could keep them competitive. That’s key for the Nets.

After all, this team owes its first-round picks to the Houston rockets through to 2027 – they have no incentive to bottom out. 

At the same time, this deal recoups some of that draft capital. If the Nets could find rebuilding packages for Irving and Simmons in the event that this doesn’t work out, they could pivot in that direction. 

LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Kevin Durant, Brooklyn Nets & Los Angeles Lakers Updates

If none of that sounds ideal for the Nets, that’s because it isn’t. Unfortunately, another Durant request would have their backs against the wall. 

They may, in time, have to do what they have to do.