With the recent controversy surrounding Kyrie Irving over concerns of him not yet being vaccinated in compliance with the state of New York’s vaccination mandate, it has left the Brooklyn Nets pondering their next move. If Irving does end up declining to get his vaccination shot, then the Nets may be forced to make a trade and find his replacement for the upcoming season.
Given everything that’s at stake for the Nets this season, they'll look to overcome this hurdle as soon as possible while playing to win their first NBA title in franchise history. Hoping to make another deep playoff run next season, let’s take a look at three potential trade targets for the Nets if Kyrie Irving refuses to get vaccinated.
Nets Trade Targets Involving Kyrie Irving
Goran Dragic
After spending the past seven seasons playing for the Miami Heat, Goran Dragic was traded to the Toronto Raptors this offseason. Looking to join a title contender prior to the start of the 2021-22 NBA season, Dragic would be an ideal pick-up for the Nets. This move would also reunite Dragic with former Phoenix Suns teammate Steve Nash.
Under the direction of Nash, Dragic would be able to run their up-tempo offense to perfection and form stellar on-court chemistry with Kevin Durant, James Harden, Joe Harris, Blake Griffin, and Nicolas Claxton. This wouldn't necessarily be an upgrade from Irving, but it would give the Nets a seasoned veteran and a proven playoff performer who's also a great locker room presence that could serve as a mentor to the younger players on the Nets.
Malcolm Brogdon
Article Continues BelowAs one of the NBA’s most efficient two-way players, Malcolm Brogdon would be a great addition on the Nets and give them an additional scorer and playmaker that could add to their backcourt depth. With his ability to play point or shooting guard, Brogdon would fit in seamlessly with the chance to win an NBA title for the first time in his career.
Joining KD as a member of the 50-40-90 club a few seasons ago, Brogdon would provide Brooklyn with a much-needed boost to their backcourt. If the Nets want to add a clutch scorer and playmaker who could also provide them with another veteran leader, then this a move that they should definitely look into this season if Irving doesn't budge.
Josh Hart
Even though he just agreed to a three-year contract extension with the Pelicans this offseason, there's also a chance that he may decide he wants out if Zion Williamson ends up wanting a trade from New Orleans this season. With Hart, the Nets would gain a sound combo guard that could give them a young and developing role player who could prove to be highly beneficial to their upcoming title run.
As a savvy perimeter defender and well-rounded scorer, Hart could thrive playing in the Nets' fast-paced system. With their high-octane scoring attack, Hart would continually expand and improve his game playing alongside Durant and Harden. Still just 26 years old, Josh Hart would be able to elevate his game to new heights playing for the Brooklyn Nets.