Few teams have as much riding on the offseason as the Brooklyn Nets. The Nets have not one but four first-round picks in this year's draft, which could give them a desperately needed infusion of young talent.
Not just that, but they could have $70 million in cap space this summer. They can use that to try and jump-start their rebuild by poaching other teams' players.
With few stars available this summer, the Nets will have to be creative with how they use their cap space. That could result in them targeting young players, and one potential option is currently playing for the Golden State Warriors right now.
The Brooklyn Nets can steal a Golden State Warriors rising star away this summer.
Forward Jonathan Kuminga is set to enter restricted free agency this summer, and while his role has fluctuated, he could thrive in a larger one. The Nets can provide that bigger role.
Golden State is already one of the most expensive teams in the NBA. As a result, while they have the right of first refusal, they can't afford to match a monster offer sheet, with reports suggesting that they are already prepared to lose them.
Even if the Warriors were willing to match an offer, they will likely only do so with the intention of doing a sign and trade. Fortunately for the Nets, they are in position to accommodate.
The Nets reportedly could be a sign-and-trade destination for Jonathan Kuminga this offseason https://t.co/mE3JUoQz5h
— Warriors on NBCS (@NBCSWarriors) April 22, 2025
One potential option could be the Nets sharpshooter Cam Johnson. Johnson would be a huge get for the Warriors, giving them one of the best shooters in the NBA not named Steph Curry. A Kuminga sign and trade for Johnson might prevent the Nets from having to overpay for him, with them being able to offset most of his salary for next season.
Not a conversation for today really but If Brooklyn Nets are truly interested in Jonathan Kuminga in restricted free agency, Warriors decision becomes an easy one. Cam Johnson is scheduled to make $20.5M next season and $22.5M the following season. Sign/trade for wing shooting.
— John Dickinson (@JDJohnDickinson) April 20, 2025
They could also potentially extract another asset from the Warriors with Johnson being a more proven commodity. That might work out well for both teams with the Nets getting a younger player with upside while the Warriors would replace him with a better fit.
All in all, Brooklyn has a chance to dramatically improve their roster this summer with four draft picks in this year's draft and up to $70 million in cap space. With no stars on the market, they could pursue restricted free agents, and Warriors forward Jonathan Kuminga appears to be the most likely target.
If they can poach him from the Warriors, then he will be a worthwhile gamble to see if he can thrive in a role with the Nets.