Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›
The Nets’ offseason decisions will shape the franchise’s future, with options ranging from drafting a young star to trading for an established superstar.Columbia Today
The Brooklyn Nets are entering a crucial offseason after a 18-57 season, with several key decisions to make that will shape their long-term future. The team has a chance at a top pick in the 2026 NBA Draft, which features generational talent, and could also choose to go all-in this summer by trading for a superstar player like Giannis Antetokounmpo or Donovan Mitchell. Additionally, the Nets must decide whether to keep their veteran players like Michael Porter Jr. and Nic Claxton or move them for more assets to aid the rebuild.
Why it matters
The Nets are in the midst of a rebuild and the decisions they make this offseason will be critical in determining the direction of the franchise for years to come. With a chance at a top draft pick and the ability to trade for a superstar, Brooklyn has multiple paths to potentially accelerate their return to contention, but they must weigh the risks and benefits of each option.
The details
The Nets currently have the third-worst record in the NBA, giving them a 14% chance at the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 draft, which is considered a generational talent class. Brooklyn could opt to continue their organic rebuild by drafting and developing young talent, or they could explore trading for an established superstar like Giannis Antetokounmpo or Donovan Mitchell, who have both been rumored to be available. The team also has to decide whether to keep veteran players like Michael Porter Jr. and Nic Claxton, who have played well this season, or move them for additional assets to aid the rebuild.
The 2025-26 NBA regular season is nearing an end.The 2026 NBA Draft is scheduled for June.The NBA offseason typically begins in July.
The players
Darryn Peterson
A highly touted freshman guard prospect who could be a potential target for the Nets in the 2026 NBA Draft.
AJ Dybantsa
Another talented freshman forward who is expected to be a top pick in the 2026 NBA Draft.
Michael Porter Jr.
A 27-year-old forward for the Nets who averaged 24.2 points and 7.1 rebounds per game this season.
Nic Claxton
The Nets’ defensive anchor who averaged 11.8 points, 7.0 rebounds, 3.7 assists and 1.1 blocks per game this season.
A superstar forward for the Milwaukee Bucks who could be a potential trade target for the Nets this offseason.
Donovan Mitchell
A superstar guard for the Cleveland Cavaliers who could also be a potential trade target for the Nets this offseason.
Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›
What’s next
The Nets will have a busy offseason ahead as they look to chart the course for the franchise’s future. The 2026 NBA Draft in June will be a key milestone, as the team looks to add a potential franchise-changing talent. In the weeks and months leading up to the draft, the Nets will also have to decide whether to trade for a superstar player or keep their current veteran core to build around.
The takeaway
The Nets are at a crossroads as they look to transition from a rebuilding team to a contender. They have multiple options this offseason, including landing a top draft pick, trading for a superstar, or keeping their current veteran players. The decisions they make will have long-lasting implications on the direction of the franchise.