In the wake of trading away Mikal Bridges to the New York Knicks, the Nets are left without a clear path to contention. With the 2024-25 season shaping up to be a transitional period, one strategy that could significantly change their fortunes is to embrace a rebuild and target the top pick in the 2025 NBA Draft. Enter Cooper Flagg, the highly touted prospect who could be the cornerstone of a new era for the Brooklyn Nets.
Can Cooper Flagg change the sports landscape in New York?
The Nets have been at the forefront of the NBA’s spotlight in recent years, primarily due to their attempt to build a superteam. The trio of Kevin Durant, Kyrie Irving, and James Harden was supposed to deliver multiple championships and solidify the Nets’ place as a dominant force in the league. However, things didn’t pan out as expected. Injuries, off-court drama, and a lack of cohesion led to the premature breakup of the superteam, leaving the Nets scrambling to rebuild.
Why Tanking for Cooper Flagg Makes Sense
The idea of tanking isn’t new in the NBA, and for the Nets, it might be the most logical approach. With their current roster lacking star power after the departure of Bridges, competing in the Eastern Conference seems unrealistic. Instead, focusing on the draft lottery could give the Brooklyn Nets a chance to land the first overall pick and select Flagg, a generational talent.
Flagg, known for his defensive prowess, versatility, and high basketball IQ, has drawn comparisons to some of the NBA’s elite two-way players. At six-foot-nine, he possesses the length and athleticism to guard multiple positions, while also being an emerging offensive threat. His skill set would instantly elevate the Nets, particularly on the defensive end, where they’ve struggled in recent seasons.
The Formation of a “Cs” Triumvirate in the Frontcourt
If the Nets do land Flagg, he would join a young core that includes Nic Claxton and Noah Clowney. This trio, all with names starting with “C” (two last names, one first name) could form a formidable frontcourt. Claxton, already a standout defender and shot-blocker, would benefit immensely from playing alongside another elite defender in Flagg. Clowney, known for his energy and potential as a versatile forward, would complement both players, creating a dynamic and switchable frontcourt that could wreak havoc on opposing offenses.
This “Cs” triumvirate would give the Nets a strong defensive identity, something that has been missing in recent years. With Flagg leading the charge, the Nets could build a team that not only competes but also stands out in New York, a city where they’ve often been overshadowed by the Knicks.
Making Brooklyn Relevant in New York
The Nets have long struggled to carve out their own identity in a market dominated by the Knicks. The failed experiment with Durant, Irving, and Harden only added to the narrative that the Nets are a team trying to buy success rather than build it organically. By drafting Flagg and developing him alongside Claxton and Clowney, the Nets have the opportunity to change that perception.
Building a team around young, homegrown talent resonates with fans and creates a sustainable path to success. The Oklahoma City Thunder are a prime example of this approach. After trading away Paul George for Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, the Thunder rebuilt through the draft, developing Chet Holmgren and Jalen Williams into a promising core. The Thunder’s patient, methodical approach to rebuilding has them on the brink of contention, and the Nets could follow a similar blueprint with Flagg at the center.
Flagg’s defensive impact and all-around game would provide the Nets with a new face of the franchise, one that fans can rally behind. His presence would also create a more balanced team, with Claxton anchoring the defense and Clowney adding versatility. This trio could make the Nets a competitive force in the Eastern Conference, especially as they add other pieces in subsequent years through the draft or free agency.
A Chance to Rewrite History
The Nets have had two first overall picks in their history—Derrick Coleman in 1990 and Kenyon Martin in 2000. Both players had significant impacts, with Martin helping lead the Nets to two NBA Finals appearances in the early 2000s. Flagg could be the third first overall pick in franchise history and the one to finally bring sustained success to Brooklyn.
Flagg’s ability to anchor a defense, combined with his emerging offensive game, makes him a perfect fit for a Nets team in need of an identity. By building around Flagg, Claxton, and Clowney, the Nets could create a foundation that not only competes for titles but also establishes them as a force in New York.
In a league where stars are often the difference between success and mediocrity, the Nets have the chance to develop one of their own. Flagg could be the player who changes the direction of the franchise, making Brooklyn relevant in the NBA’s biggest market and proving that building organically can lead to long-term success.
