The Nets have failed. What's next?

With Kevin Durant's trade to the Suns in 2023, the Nets big 3 era is over. With this, we find ourselves asking, "What's next for the Nets?"

In the 25-26 NBA season, the Nets ended the year 20-62, one of the worst records in the NBA. It's clear. The Nets have bottomed out. Having traded Cameron Johnson for Michael Porter Jr in the offseason, the expectation was clear, the Nets would suck.

But that didn't quite happen.

Porter had a great season, nearly being named an all-star. And with impressive showings from young pieces, the Nets weren't quite as bad as we thought they'd be.

So, what should the Nets do next? It's clear that with it's core now, the Nets won't be a contender. They allocate most of their minutes to rookies and other young players. It's apparent, the Nets need to embrace the tank, and develop their rookies.

What should they do?

The Nets need to focus on building a young core worthy of relying on, and Michael Porter Jr doesn't fit this timeline. While Porter has been great this year, he's taking away shots from young players that need to develop. And with him having his all-star leap, his value is at an all-time high. So, It's clear what the Nets need to do with him.

Being a high volume off-ball shooter, Porter has immense value in the eyes of a contender. He is what brings your team over the top. So, the Nets need to trade him. And in return, they need draft capital.

How will they do it?

Philadelphia 76ers receive: (F) Michael Porter Jr., (G) Terance Mann

Brooklyn Nets receive: (F) Paul George, (F) Justin Edwards, 2027 unprotected first round pick, 3 2028 second round picks (1 via GSW, 1 via DET), 2030 second round pick via WAS

Why this works:

With this trade, Brooklyn fully embraces the tank. This trade is a double-positive. Brooklyn acquires valuable draft capital and young forward Justin Edwards. Brooklyn is also able to offload Terance Mann's $15 million contract. In exchange, the 76ers offload Paul George's 4-year, $212 million contract, and replace him with a contender-worthy player in Michael Porter Jr. The Nets would likely involve a third team to re-route Paul George after this trade, ensuring the focus remains on the young guys.

This trade defines two paths, one towards contention, and the other towards rebuild.

After this move, Brooklyn has 1 clear goal, lose.

The Nets have full access to their first round pick next year. This allows for flexibility to give their young players all the minutes they want. Losing is no longer a problem. Its time for a reset.

Nets 2026-27 potential starting lineup:

PG: Egor Demin SG: Drake Powell SF: Ziaire Williams PF: Noah Clowney C: Nicolas Claxton