Even though Brooklyn never made a bid, four-time All-Star guard Trae Young reportedly viewed the Nets as a desirable landing spot before he was traded to the Wizards. The possibility of teaming up in Brooklyn, first noted prior to the official deal, signals that the club still appeals to marquee players despite its ongoing overhaul.
Questions about the Nets’ ability to lure stars surfaced after Kevin Durant, Kyrie Irving and James Harden departed, and rumors intensified when Mikal Bridges crossed town to the Knicks. Young’s interest indicates those exits have not erased the franchise’s pull.
Sharpe Maximizes Starting Role
With starting center Nic Claxton missing the first two games of a recent three-game stretch for personal reasons, reserve big man Day’Ron Sharpe stepped in and impressed. During Wednesday’s overtime loss to Orlando, the third-year center grabbed a pivotal offensive rebound in the final seconds of regulation that set up an Egor Demin three-pointer to force overtime.
Head coach Jordi Fernandez praised Sharpe’s effort, saying the 22-year-old “played really hard” and provided winning plays throughout the stint. Fernandez added that Sharpe’s progress has been evident and his minutes have been valuable.
Sharpe’s strong run could reduce Claxton’s workload going forward, a scenario Fernandez called “a good problem.” Both players, he noted, have contributed to the team’s defensive surge. Claxton is scheduled to return to the starting lineup on Friday against Los Angeles.
Ziaire Williams Finding Consistency
Forward Ziaire Williams, who did not play in the final two games of 2025, has delivered some of his best performances since the calendar turned to 2026. Fernandez said the former lottery pick’s energy and defensive intensity are impacting games and emphasized the need for Williams to sustain that level. The coach highlighted the 22-year-old’s daily work habits and positive attitude as factors in his recent improvement.
Brooklyn continues its homestand Friday, aiming to build on individual growth and reclaim momentum after the narrow loss to Orlando.
Source: Hoops Rumors
