The moment the Nets dealt Mikal Bridges away, many of their fans envisioned the arrival of Cooper Flagg, followed by championship contention.
But trading Bridges ≠ getting Flagg. And dreams of parades are premature.
Yes, the trades general manger Sean Marks pulled off — regaining control of their 2025 and 2026 first-round picks from the Rockets and dealing Bridges to the Knicks for five first-rounders (four unprotected) and a swap — earned A grades from several media outlets.
And having four first-round picks and two more seconds — including their own natural picks — in what’s expected to be a loaded draft next June is a huge first step in their rebuild.