The Nets still need another center after trading Nic Claxton, and Sean Marks has no shortage of intriguing options. From rising stars to proven veterans, here are five impact big men Brooklyn should target this offseason.
With the start of NBA free agency just hours away, the Brooklyn Nets are expected to be one of the league's busiest teams.
After trading Nic Claxton to the Chicago Bulls as part of the deal that brought Julius Randle to Brooklyn, the Nets still have one obvious need to address this offseason: center.
The Nets recently re-signed Day'Ron Sharpe to a two-year, $20 million contract, solidifying him as the team's starting center heading into next season. While Sharpe is expected to take on a much larger role, he's currently the only true center on Brooklyn's roster, making another addition in the frontcourt feel almost inevitable.
Brooklyn still has nearly $30 million in cap space to work with, meaning Sean Marks has plenty of options. The Nets could chase another young cornerstone, add a proven veteran, or simply look for another reliable big behind Day'Ron Sharpe.
Here are five impact centers Brooklyn should target this offseason.
1. Jalen Duren
If Brooklyn wants to make a splash, Jalen Duren is the biggest name to watch.
The 22-year-old is coming off a breakout campaign in which he averaged 19.5 points and 10.5 rebounds while earning his first All-Star selection and Third Team All-NBA honors. He also received Defensive Player of the Year votes, cementing himself as one of the league's top young centers.
Despite that success, Duren's future in Detroit isn't completely settled. According to The Athletic, contract negotiations between Duren and the Pistons have stalled after he was reportedly underwhelmed by the team's initial offer. While Detroit has publicly stated it wants to keep him, Duren is expected to explore potential sign-and-trade opportunities if negotiations don't progress.
Brooklyn probably won't get the chance to land a 22-year-old All-Star very often. If there's any indication that Detroit is willing to listen, this is the kind of swing the Nets should seriously consider.
2. Walker Kessler
Walker Kessler may be the best defensive center available this offseason.
Kessler has established himself as one of the NBA's premier shot blockers and interior defenders during his first four seasons. At only 24 years old, he fits the timeline of Brooklyn's young roster while bringing an elite defensive skill set.
Reports recently surfaced that Kessler has grown frustrated with the Jazz's handling of his contract negotiations. Utah is still expected to prioritize keeping him, but if those talks continue to drag on, the Nets could explore an offer sheet or a potential sign-and-trade.
Sharpe and Kessler would give Brooklyn two young, physical centers capable of protecting the rim for years to come.
3. Mitchell Robinson
Mitchell Robinson has already been connected to Brooklyn this summer.
When healthy, Robinson is one of the league's best offensive rebounders and interior defenders. He controls the glass, finishes efficiently around the rim, and provides the type of physical presence Brooklyn lost when Claxton was traded.
The concern, as always, is health. Robinson has struggled with injuries throughout his career, making him one of the riskier names on this list.
If the price is right, Robinson would be a worthwhile gamble. Pairing him with Sharpe would give Brooklyn two physical centers capable of protecting the paint.
4. Brook Lopez
Few free agent signings would generate more excitement than a Brook Lopez reunion.
The Nets' all-time leading scorer remains an effective NBA center thanks to his ability to protect the rim and stretch the floor. While Lopez isn't the player he was during his prime, he still has plenty left to offer a young team looking for leadership and stability.
If the Clippers decline his player option, Brooklyn could bring him back on a short-term deal to back up Sharpe while mentoring one of the franchise's youngest rosters.
Bringing Lopez back wouldn't just be a feel-good reunion. He still fills a real need as a floor-spacing rim protector and could be a valuable mentor for Sharpe.
5. Sandro Mamukelashvili
If the Nets are looking for value, Sandro Mamukelashvili deserves a long look.
Mamukelashvili officially declined his $2.8 million player option and enters free agency after a breakout season. His ability to stretch the floor, move the ball, and play with relentless energy would make him an intriguing fit in Jordi Fernandez's system.
Unlike many traditional centers, Mamukelashvili offers legitimate offensive versatility. His shooting and passing would give Brooklyn a different look at the position instead of simply adding another rim-running big.
He won't be the splashiest signing of the offseason, but he might end up being one of the best values available.
Final Thoughts
Regardless of which direction Brooklyn goes, adding another center feels like a necessity.
Day'Ron Sharpe is expected to receive a much larger opportunity next season, but asking him to shoulder the position by himself would be a gamble. Fortunately for the Nets, this offseason offers plenty of intriguing possibilities, whether Sean Marks wants to swing big for a player like Jalen Duren or Walker Kessler, add a proven defender in Mitchell Robinson, reunite with Brook Lopez, or bet on the versatility of Sandro Mamukelashvili.
However, the Nets choose to attack the position, expect center to remain one of the team's biggest priorities throughout free agency.
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