The Nets still need another center after trading Nic Claxton. If Sean Marks decides against making a blockbuster move, these five affordable options could help strengthen Brooklyn's frontcourt without breaking the bank.
With NBA free agency set to begin in just 30 minutes, the Brooklyn Nets still have one of the league's most flexible cap situations and several roster needs to address. After moving on from Nic Claxton, the Nets have no shortage of options if they decide to add another center this offseason.
While names like Jalen Duren and Walker Kessler would require much larger investments, Brooklyn could also look for a more affordable addition to complement Day'Ron Sharpe. With nearly $30 million in cap space still available, Sean Marks has plenty of flexibility. Whether it's a proven veteran, a reclamation project, or another young player with upside, Brooklyn has several realistic options.
Here are five affordable centers the Nets should have on their radar.
1. Precious Achiuwa
If Brooklyn is looking for a versatile frontcourt option, Precious Achiuwa deserves serious consideration.
While Achiuwa is naturally a power forward at 6-foot-8, he's logged plenty of minutes at center throughout his NBA career. His athleticism, defensive versatility, and ability to switch onto smaller players make him an intriguing small-ball five, particularly in Jordi Fernandez's system.
His three-point shot remains a work in progress, but Achiuwa brings energy, rebounding, defensive versatility, and the flexibility to play either frontcourt position.
2. Nick Richards
Nick Richards may be one of the most underrated centers available this offseason.
The 27-year-old has developed into a reliable NBA rotation big thanks to his rebounding, rim protection, and ability to finish around the basket. He won't demand touches offensively, but he understands his role and consistently impacts the game by doing the little things.
After spending much of his career in supporting roles, Richards could be looking for an opportunity to establish himself with a larger role. The Nets could offer exactly that while adding another dependable presence alongside Day'Ron Sharpe.
3. Quinten Post
If the Nets want to add another floor-spacing big, Quinten Post is an intriguing name to watch.
One of the biggest strengths in Post's game is his ability to stretch the floor. The restricted free agent shot an impressive 40.8% from three during his rookie season in 2024-25. With Sharpe doing most of his work around the basket, Post's shooting would give Brooklyn a completely different look depending on the matchup.
His defense still has room to improve, but Brooklyn has shown a willingness to invest in player development. If the Nets believe Post can continue growing on that end, he could develop into an excellent complementary piece in the frontcourt.
4. Marvin Bagley III
Marvin Bagley III has never quite lived up to the expectations that came with being the No. 2 overall pick in the 2018 NBA Draft, but he's still just 27 years old.
Bagley remains an athletic finisher who can score around the rim and rebound at a solid level. Injuries and defensive inconsistencies have prevented him from carving out a larger role, but there is still enough talent to make him an intriguing buy-low candidate.
For a rebuilding team like the Nets, taking a low-risk flyer on a former No. 2 overall pick makes plenty of sense. If Bagley can stay healthy, Brooklyn could be the place where he finally earns a consistent role.
5. Ariel Hukporti
Ariel Hukporti may not be a household name yet, but he's another restricted free agent who could make sense for Brooklyn.
The 23-year-old brings size, energy, and defensive upside while continuing to develop his overall game. Although he's still raw offensively, Hukporti has shown a willingness to do the dirty work by protecting the rim, rebounding, and setting hard screens.
Like Quinten Post, Hukporti is still developing and could benefit from a larger opportunity. He wouldn't be expected to play a major role immediately, but Brooklyn has consistently prioritized player development during its rebuild. If Brooklyn wants another developmental center to grow alongside its young core, Hukporti fits that timeline perfectly.
Final Thoughts
Not every move has to be a blockbuster.
If Sean Marks decides against making a major splash at center, there are still plenty of affordable options capable of improving Brooklyn's frontcourt. Whether it's adding a proven rotation player like Nick Richards, bringing in the versatility of Precious Achiuwa, betting on Marvin Bagley III's upside, or taking a chance on the long-term potential of Quinten Post or Ariel Hukporti, the Nets should have plenty of worthwhile options to choose from.
Whether Sean Marks opts for a splashier addition or a lower-cost signing, expect the Nets to remain active in the market for another center throughout free agency.
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