The Brooklyn Nets could make some massive rebuilding moves this offseason.
The Nets are one of a select few franchises armed with significant cap space and a treasure trove of draft assets.
The Nets' roster needs a true cornerstone, which means they'll likely be exploring bold moves to acquire a high-impact player.
And with four first-round picks in the upcoming draft and flexibility under the salary cap, Brooklyn is well-positioned to make a splash.
One intriguing possibility, according to a new report from Bleacher Report's Grant Hughes, could involve targeting a dynamic, young star whose value may be at a rare low point.
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"ESPN's Tim MacMahon reported in April there were "whisperings and rumblings" about Ja Morant's potential availability this summer," Hughes wrote.
"That's more than enough to encourage the Brooklyn Nets to put out some feelers. Morant's value is near its all-time low, as he's coming off another injury-plagued season. This one was marked by four-year lows in production while also including more ill-advised flouting of league rules. The Nets' glut of cap space gives them opportunities to chase almost anyone, but Morant's sinking value might make him a bargain acquisition."
"Still just 25 and relatively affordable with three years left on his rookie-scale max, the two-time All-Star is an intriguing buy-low candidate," Hughes continued.
"Remember, Morant finished seventh in MVP voting in 2021-22 and 12th in 2022-23. The Nets lack a cornerstone and anything resembling a high-end starter at the point. Morant could easily reestablish himself as both of those and then some."
Morant, the Memphis Grizzlies’ star point guard, averaged 23.2 points, 7.3 assists, and 4.1 rebounds in 50 games during the 2024-25 season, but injuries, including a hip contusion that sidelined him for Game 4 of Memphis’ first-round playoff sweep against the Oklahoma City Thunder, limited his impact.
For Brooklyn, acquiring Morant would address a glaring need at point guard, where the team lacks a true playmaker. Pairing him with Cam Thomas, assuming Thomas is extended, could create a high-octane backcourt capable of revitalizing the Nets’ offense.
Brooklyn’s assets, including young talents like Cam Johnson and multiple draft picks, could entice Memphis, especially if the Grizzlies pivot toward building around Jaren Jackson Jr. and Desmond Bane.
A hypothetical package might include Johnson, a 2025 first-round pick (via New York), and additional future picks, leveraging Brooklyn’s cap flexibility to absorb Morant’s $39.4 million salary for 2025-26.
However, Morant’s injury history and off-court concerns present risks. The Nets would need assurances that Morant, a former No. 2 overall pick, can return to his All-NBA form, as seen in his 2021-22 season when he averaged 27.4 points and led Memphis to 56 wins. His explosive athleticism and playmaking could thrive under coach Jordi Fernandez, who has emphasized player development.
If Brooklyn can navigate the risks, Morant could become the franchise’s new face, bringing excitement back to Barclays Center.
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