The Brooklyn Nets could be looking to shop Brook Lopez in exchange for future assets, with the team still projected to fail this season.
The Nets are poised to have a better finish this season, but with Jeremy Lin as their only significant signing this summer, it would be hard to picture Brooklyn breaking into the top eight teams in the East. The lack of proven talents may lead to another Brooklyn to another draft lottery, but without any picks for the 2017 and 2018.
One option the Nets may consider, according to Lang Greene of Basketball Insiders, is moving Brook Lopez for future assets that would help the team effectively rebuild if they indeed end up at the bottom of the standings this season.
"While the team may have every hope of holding onto Lopez long term there will be more than a few clubs that believe they are ready for the next step, and as a result willing to give up future assets for a guy like him via trade. Future assets are key to any rebuilding project and you can expect the Nets to seriously evaluate all offers that float across their desk involving the talented Lopez," Greene wrote.
Lopez has been Brooklyn's most consistent player, posting a career average of 18.3 points and 7.4 rebounds. Trading Lopez would leave a huge hole not only at the center position, but also at the team's overall output.
Nevertheless, trading Lopez won't be too difficult for the Nets, with teams like the Boston Celtics could certainly add another proven star to their already promising roster.
It is no secret that the Celtics are in need of another star presence to complement Al Horford's game and elevate the team as legitimate title contenders.
Adding Lopez would give Boston an offensive threat inside the paint, forcing Horford to play his natural position at the power forward spot. Such move would create a scary offensive frontcourt that could challenge powerhouses in the league.
The Celtics also make a perfect trade partner to the Nets, with Boston having plenty of future assets at their disposal. In 2017, the Celtics have the right to swap picks with the Nets. The following year also sees Boston owning Brooklyn's first-round pick outright.
If the Celtics developed a genuine interest to acquire Lopez, a potential deal could involve the aforementioned future draft picks, plus Amir Johnson and/or Marcus Smart.
While it still remains to be seen whether such deal would engage the Celtics and Nets to trade talks, it is a win-win situation for both teams at best.