In 2023, the Brooklyn Nets have decided to start over after the failed Kevin Durant-Kyrie Irving experiment. They now have a young and interesting roster to work with. While they may not make it to the play-in tournament this season, they have a few standout players who they can focus on building around. One player in particular is Mikal Bridges.
According to Adrian Wojnarowski via Legion Hoops, the Nets plan to reconstruct their team around Mikal Bridges this offseason. Bridges, a 27-year-old wing, was the 10th overall pick in the 2018 NBA Draft. He started his professional career as a role player for the Phoenix Suns, but by 2021, he had become a full-time starter and one of the league’s top 3-and-D players. He even helped the Suns reach the NBA Finals.
Last February, Bridges was traded to the Brooklyn Nets as part of the Kevin Durant deal. Since joining the Nets, he has flourished. Last season, he averaged 26.1 points per game, and this season, he is currently averaging 21.7 points per game. He also continues to shoot a high percentage from beyond the arc.
The Nets also have other promising young players on their roster. One player to watch is Ben Simmons, who was acquired in the James Harden trade in 2022. Although Simmons has only played in 12 games this season, he has shown his ability to rebound, push the pace, distribute the ball, and play strong defense when he is available and willing to play.
Overall, the Nets are starting fresh with a new focus on Mikal Bridges as the centerpiece of their team. With other talented young players like Ben Simmons, they have the potential to build a competitive roster in the future. © 2023
According to the Source thecoldwire.com