An NBA player’s reputation can be hard to shake. That’s true with negative reputations, but it can be true of positive ones as well. For example, a player can develop a reputation for being an elite defender long after their defensive value begins to slip.
For example, take Mikal Bridges of the Brooklyn Nets. As a member of the Phoenix Suns, he was perhaps the best 3-and-D wing in the NBA. In 2023-24, his defensive impact is slipping. What’s happening with Bridges?
Realistically, it’s a result of his increased offensive workload. Bridges is miscast as a first offensive option on the Nets. He could still be a strong third option in this league, and in that situation, his defense would likely return to form. Could he thrive on the Philadelphia 76ers?
NBA Trade Proposal
Brooklyn Nets Receive: F/C Marcus Morris Sr., G/F Furkan Korkmaz, 2026 First-Round Pick (PHI), 2028 First-Round Pick (LAC via PHI), 2030 First-Round Pick (PHI)
Philadelphia 76ers Receive: G/F Mikal Bridges
An NBA general manager can also develop a reputation. Yet, it’s a bit easier for them to shed their reputation. All a general manager has to do is make a surprising move, and people will accept that they’ve changed their M.O.
Daryl Morey has quite the reputation. He’s known for chasing star players – even at the expense of roster construction. Morey has typically opted to get as much top-end talent on his roster as he can, and let them sort out their fit later.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Mikal Bridges, Brooklyn Nets, Philadelphia 76ers Updates
How has that worked out for him? His record is mixed. Morey’s teams have typically had a stake in the championship conversation. With that said, they’ve never won an NBA title. Could he shed his reputation this year?
Why The Philadelphia 76ers Do The Deal
This deal would be in line with Morey’s reputation. Bridges is a star. At the same time, this would make sense for the Sixers. Bridges also happens to be a perfect fit with this roster.
The Sixers are built around superstar big man Joel Embiid. Otherwise, Tyrese Maxey has emerged as a star-caliber lead guard. What are they missing? How about a 3-and-D wing who can create his own shot in a pinch? NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Mikal Bridges, Brooklyn Nets, Philadelphia 76ers Updates
That’s Bridges. If the Sixers made this deal, they’d be among the most serious title contenders in the NBA. This team shouldn’t be hoarding draft capital either – the Sixers have a title window. Should the Nets help them expand it?
Why The Brooklyn Nets Do The Deal
Some Nets fans will not like the idea of trading Bridges. This team owes their first-round picks – whether outright or via swap – to the Houston Rockets through to 2027. If they make this deal, they’ll surely send them a lottery pick this summer.
Alternatively, if they don’t do this deal, they may send them lottery picks through to 2027. The Nets are mediocre at best. They have some draft capital, but if a superstar becomes available, they won’t have the most competitive offer in the NBA. What should the Nets do?
Get more draft capital. This will be a case of short-term pain in pursuit of long-term gain. Following this deal, the Nets will be able to make a competitive offer for any star.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Mikal Bridges, Brooklyn Nets, Philadelphia 76ers Updates
Once they land that star, they should be able to leverage their desirable market to bring in more talent. After all, this organization already has a reputation for attracting stars.
