Next season, the Brooklyn Nets will look dramatically different from the version that recently played their butts off in the NBA bubble.
When Kevin Durant makes his Nets’ debut, fans will finally get to watch him partner up with Kyrie Irving. It’s been a long wait to see how these two superstars perform together.
The wait is almost over.
Durant and Irving, in Brooklyn jerseys, instantly placed the Nets into the conversation for championship contenders. For all the work the team has done to put themselves in this position, it’s now championship-or-bust.
Durant was, and remains, all-in on his rehab from an Achilles injury. Irving, meanwhile, played in only 20 games before having season-ending surgery to repair a nagging shoulder injury.
Durant and Irving are arguably two of the 10 best basketball players in the world. Both players are projected to be ready for next season, and that means the pressure will be on.
However, there’s work to be done before opening night. Brooklyn has a lot on their plate right now – like, who’s going to coach the team?
Jacque Vaughn, in an interim role, made an impressive case for himself in the bubble. He’s deserving of serious consideration for the permanent position.
With Durant and Irving in the mix, however, there’s so much more for Brooklyn to consider now when choosing a head coach.
The expectations are no longer just making it to the playoffs. If the rumors are true, how can anyone fault Brooklyn for pursuing Gregg Popovich? How about Ty Lue or Jason Kidd?
Then there’s the growing debate for should the Nets add a third star to complement Durant and Irving? Or do they already have one on their roster? In the bubble, Caris LeVert showed the world he’s a future star in the league.
LeVert’s play impressed many of his peers, including his teammates. But, if there’s a deal to be made for sharpshooter Bradley Beal, then what? It’s a good problem for general manager Sean Marks to have.
Brooklyn’s performance in the bubble was incredible, but that’s the past. Durant and Irving’s pending return to the court means it’s time to talk about the future.
What moves do you think the Brooklyn Nets will make in the offseason? Do you believe Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving will lead Brooklyn to a championship?
Let’s talk about it, leave a comment below and let’s discuss them here on the Baseline!
