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Are the Brooklyn Nets a Finals contender or pretender this season?

ByLoyal Ricks Jr|
NEW YORK, NEW YORK - APRIL 05: Kyrie Irving #11 and Kevin Durant #7 of the Brooklyn Nets look on from the bench during the second half against the Houston Rockets at Barclays Center on April 05, 2022 in the Brooklyn borough of New York City. The Nets won 118-105. 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 Sarah Stier/Getty Images)
NEW YORK, NEW YORK - APRIL 05: Kyrie Irving #11 and Kevin Durant #7 of the Brooklyn Nets look on from the bench during the second half against the Houston Rockets at Barclays Center on April 05, 2022 in the Brooklyn borough of New York City. The Nets won 118-105. 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 Sarah Stier/Getty Images)

Does a questionable offseason have fans wondering if the Brooklyn Nets have what it takes to be a contender in the upcoming season? How will head coach Steve Nash’s team fair against the developing Eastern Conference?

It’s been a long Summer for Nets owner Joseph Tsai. A disappointing end to last year’s campaign caused tension in the Nets locker room leading up to the offseason. Squabbles between management and All-Star caliber players grabbed the attention of the media – resulting in trade conversations heading into the upcoming season.

Brooklyn Nets offseason drama creates a cloud over the team’s future.

Former MVP Kevin Durant was one of the stars looking to relocate before opening day. His experience in Brooklyn last season didn’t sit well with the two-time champion. COVID-19 restrictions, injuries and an increased workload derailed the Nets in 2021, causing delays in their quest for a championship. Frustrations from an irregular season carried to the offseason, stirring rumors of relocation for Nash’s key players.

Relinquishing two of the team’s best players was the last resort for the front office. Offers from organizations enticed the dedicated staff, but the risk did not meet the reward. Brooklyn’s front office knew the value of Durant and Irving’s ability and could not risk trading them without collateral.

Conversations between feuding parties led to a resolution in early August. A meeting with Nash, Tsai and General Manager Sean Marks allowed Brooklyn to move past issues to focus on the future. News of Kyrie’s return to the Nets helped Durant find solace. Another All-Star on the court will take a heavy scoring load off Durant – a concern from the previous season.

Brooklyn Nets are willing to move passed an exhausting offseason.

Media Day served as an opportunity for the members of the press to get an understanding of Brooklyn’s plans for moving forward. Responses from Durant and Irving reassured fans of their focus on the upcoming journey. Nets stars answered questions honestly and openly, showing their new attitude towards the season ahead.

Anticipation for the regular season has fans excited to see Brooklyn’s stars return to the hardwood. An end to COVID-19 restrictions will give Irving more time in the team’s rotation – a detrimental part of the team’s success. His 27.4 points per game and 5.8 assists last season ranked 4th in both categories among active players.

Pressure will be on Kevin Durant to put on a show after a distracting off-season. His 29.9 points per game led the Nets to the playoffs in 2021, but No.7 is determined to achieve more. Assistance from Ben Simmons, Seth Curry, and Markieff Morris should add to the dynamic.

Steve Nash’s squad is impressive on paper, they just need to leave the drama in the past.

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