In a recent ESPN mock trade, the Nets move up in the 2025 NBA Draft while also acquiring a veteran guard.
Despite their disappointing 26–56 record, the Brooklyn Nets are in a far stronger position than their record would indicate.
They have fascinating veteran trade assets, as well as more salary cap room and first-round picks than any other NBA team.
A recent mock draft created by ESPN’s Kevin Pelton depicted a trade in which the Memphis Grizzlies would acquire Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, John Konchar, the No. 16 pick in the 2025 draft, a 2028 first-round pick, and a 2030 first-round pick swap from the New Jersey Nets for Cameron Johnson and the No. 27 pick in the 2025 NBA Draft.
Going from 27th to 16th this year is valuable enough to warrant a late first-round pick; in addition, Brooklyn would receive a second first-rounder in 2028 and might perhaps trade for another one in 2030.
According to Pelton, Caldwell-Pope’s trade value might be revived by the Nets following his shooting slump with the Magic.
“Since this trade doesn’t necessitate cap space to finalise, Brooklyn could make the most of its spending power by addressing other deals or signings with the league-high cap space before finalising this one.”
As the Brooklyn Nets plot their next move in their rebuild, Cameron Johnson—one of the team’s most veteran and versatile players—is thought of as a prime trade possibility.
In addition to averaging a career-high 18.8 points, 3.4 assists, and 0.4 blocks per game last season, Johnson also finished with 0.9 steals, the second-most in his career, and 4.3 rebounds per game.
If the Milwaukee Bucks want to be more than just another mediocre playoff club, they should trade for Johnson. Johnson has been among the league’s top five shooters and has also contributed as a long, versatile defender.
In contrast to Johnson, who just had his finest statistical season in NBA history, Caldwell-Pope had his worst performance since his rookie year.
He started 77 games for the Orlando Magic in 2024–25 and averaged 8.7 points, 2.2 rebounds, and 1.8 assists per game.
The Grizzlies acquired him in a trade with Desmond Bane and multiple draft choices (including the two selections depicted in this fake transaction) on June 15.
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