As the Brooklyn Nets enter another year of their rebuild, the 2026 NBA Draft comes into focus for the organization.
While the Nets are expected to select a new top-tier incoming rookie at No. 6, a recent hypothetical trade suggestion shows how the Nets could benefit from a trade-down. Not only would the Nets move just a few spots down to No. 9, but they would acquire an All-Star guard in Kyrie Irving.
The mock trade put together by Bleacher Report’s Andy Bailey includes the Nets shipping out Nic Claxton, Terance Mann, and the No. 6 pick. In exchange, the Nets would acquire Irving and No. 9.
Why Should The Nets Consider A Kyrie Reunion?
GettyMEMPHIS, TENNESSEE – OCTOBER 24: Kyrie Irving #11 of the Brooklyn Nets guards Ja Morant #12 of the Memphis Grizzlies during the game at FedExForum on October 24, 2022 in Memphis, Tennessee. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Justin Ford/Getty Images)
“Kyrie and Michael Porter Jr. would make for one of the most explosive offensive duos in the East,” Bailey wrote. “And if one or two of last year’s first-round picks took a developmental leap, the Nets could be right back in the mix for a play-in spot.”
The Nets tenure for Irving had some amazing individual play that was overshadowed by non-basketball issues.
That was a bad time for Irving. The same could be said about James Harden and Kevin Durant as well. Each core player from that short-lived Nets superteam era seems to have their own takeaway. Without one big consistent story from all who were involved, it’s hard to place total blame on any player for it.
As Bailey states, the Nets “may not be eager” to get back into business with Irving, but if bygones can be bygones, it’s a deal worth exploring for the Nets, who do already have an All-Star caliber forward in the mix in Michael Porter Jr., who seems sold on the organization.
The Mavericks Might Turn The Page
GettyAnthony Davis #3 of the Dallas Mavericks talks with injured teammate Kyrie Irving #11 during the second half of their game against the Utah Jazz at the Delta Center on January 8, 2026 in Salt Lake City, Utah.
When the Mavs initially traded for Irving, he joined the team for its Luka Doncic era.
Doncic ended up with the Los Angeles Lakers, and his star replacement is now out in DC with the Washington Wizards. The Mavericks haven’t had a chance to see Irving in action with Cooper Flagg. Depending on how this summer goes, the basketball world may never see the duo share the floor.
At 34, Irving is coming off a torn ACL. He took the entire 2025-2026 season off, as the Mavs struggled to compete. Irving could be quite helpful for the Rookie of the Year’s sophomore growth. At the same time, if the Mavericks have a chance to turn the page and begin focusing on players who will be in Dallas for the long haul, then the sooner the better.