Home/NBA

USA Today via Reuters

USA Today via Reuters

The Brooklyn Nets had a forgetful 2020 where they recorded 35-37 and ranked #7 in the eastern conference. In round 2, they were completely white-washed by defending champions Toronto Raptors. They lost the series 0-4 and now look keen on signing an experienced player.

They recently got an eight-time All-star Steve Nash on-board as their head coach. The decision sparked reactions from many personalities who questioned it. But the Nets organization cared less. Now, as the next obvious move, their motive is to build a more powerful roster. 

USA Today via Reuters

NBA rumors suggest mega shifts in the Brooklyn Nets roster

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad

The freshest rumor is that the franchise has set its eyes on New Orleans Pelicans guard Jrue Holiday. The Pelicans had an even more miserable outing as they ranked #13 back-to-back two years. So they too need restructuring and hence are open to big trades. The Nets can offer the Pelicans some alluring pieces. They can be willing to spare Spencer Dinwiddie, Dzanan Musa, and Jarrett Allen, along with a protected first-rounder. 

Many people reacted to the news-

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad

Jarrett has spent just three seasons with the Nets, but he has shown good growth. However, he will be a restricted free agent by the season’s end. Dinwiddie has decent playmaking ability and had an impressive 2019-20 regular season. But they’ve got to make space for signing as big as Jrue’s and hence this seems the only way.

Why is Jrue Holiday such an important prospect?

Jrue had a great playoff series in 2017-18 where he averaged 23.7 points. In the current season, he averaged 19.1 points, 4.8 rebs, 6.7 assists, and 1.6 steals. His figures do not really reflect his ability as a defensive player. It was viewed as a questionable decision when he was recently not included in either the NBA All-defense first or second team. 

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad

Kevin Durant, the big man in the Nets, missed the entire 2019-20 season because of a ruptured right Achilles tendon. He recently appeared in an interview where he called Jrue “probably the best defender in the league at the guard position.” He remembered the games when Jrue guarded him and made dribbling past him a nightmare. Even Damian Lillard and many other players on different occasions have agreed with Jrue’s amazing defensive potential.

When Kevin himself has such a high opinion of Jrue, it makes sense to believe that this rumor can very soon turn into reality just as the trade window opens.