When listing off the most valuable players in the NBA, the name Mikal Bridges probably is not one that comes to mind. Not to take anything away from the Brooklyn Nets’ face of the franchise, but he’s certainly not on the same level as say, Joel Embiid, Anthony Edwards, or Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. Yet, I suppose that depends on who you ask, like anything these days.
Still, it’s become clear that the member of the 2021-22 All-Defensive Team is highly desired across the Association, but there’s been no indication that the Nets are fielding offers for their breakout two-way star. But that hasn’t stopped teams from trying anyway.
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Brooklyn Nets continue showing no interest in trading Mikal Bridges
Ever since he landed with the Brooklyn Nets as part of the Phoenix Suns’ trade for Kevin Durant last season, Miles Bridges’ name has been linked to various trade rumors. While many didn’t see it at the time, Bridges has since developed into the Nets’ best player, helping them get into the playoffs a season ago.
Yet, the Nets are on a different path this season, coming into NBA games today as the 11th seed in a playoff race that only includes ten teams advancing past the regular season. This has once again led to several trade offers coming in for the 27-year-old swingman.
Apparently, those offers even include a package containing five first-round picks. We previously heard reports of them being offered four but never five.
Still, even Matt Moore, who reported the news of the Nets rejecting an offer of five first-round picks, doesn’t entirely believe the rumor. His thoughts are that these ‘five first-round picks’ are more likely to contain either a few pick swaps or highly protected first-round selections. If so, this is much different than, say, landing multiple lottery picks that have the potential to bring in premier talent. It’s no wonder the Nets have no interest in an offer like that.
A few teams who have been linked to a potential Bridges trade include the Houston Rockets and New Orleans Pelicans, but it appears roster improvements will have to come elsewhere.