Knicks and Nets reportedly make Historic Trade Centering on Mikal Bridges
In a landmark move on the eve of the NBA draft, the New York Knicks and Brooklyn Nets completed a rare trade, marking their first transaction since 1983. The Knicks acquired Mikal Bridges from the Nets in exchange for Bojan Bogdanovic, five first-round draft picks, a first-round pick swap, and a second-round selection, sources told.
Trade Details
Brooklyn will receive:
- Unprotected New York picks in 2025, 2027, 2029, and 2031
- An unprotected pick swap with New York in 2028
- A top-four protected 2025 first-round pick via the Milwaukee Bucks
- A 2025 second-rounder
The Knicks will also acquire a 2026 second-round pick from the Nets.
Mikal Bridges’ Impact
Mikal Bridges, 27, known for his elite 3-and-D capabilities, has never missed a game in his NBA career. He averaged 19.6 points last season with Brooklyn. Bridges’ durability and performance make him a significant addition to the Knicks’ roster.
Bridges will reunite with former Villanova teammates Jalen Brunson, Josh Hart, and Donte DiVincenzo, who together led the Wildcats to national championships in 2016 and 2018. This reunion is aimed at ending the Knicks’ 52-year championship drought.
Knicks’ Strategic Moves
New York’s acquisition of Bridges aligns with their strategy to bolster their perimeter defense and shooting. The Knicks are also focused on re-signing forward OG Anunoby, acquired midseason from the Toronto Raptors, and center Isaiah Hartenstein, who is eligible for a four-year, $72.5 million deal due to his early Bird rights.
Brooklyn’s Long-term Strategy
The Nets, in trading Bridges, continue to stockpile draft assets, gaining control of their 2025 and 2026 drafts, both expected to feature high-end prospects. This follows the Kevin Durant blockbuster trade in February 2022, which also brought Bridges to Brooklyn.
Player Profiles
Mikal Bridges:
- Age: 27
- 2023-24 Stats: 19.6 points, 4.5 rebounds, 3.6 assists per game
- Career: 474 consecutive games, longest active streak in the NBA
Bojan Bogdanovic:
- Age: 35
- 2023-24 Stats: 15.2 points per game
- Career: Played first 2½ years with the Nets, acquired by the Knicks at the trade deadline last season
Outlook
The Knicks, having won back-to-back playoff series for the first time in 24 years, aim to challenge the Boston Celtics for Eastern Conference supremacy. Brooklyn, meanwhile, is poised to rebuild with a focus on future draft prospects, enhancing their flexibility and potential in upcoming seasons.
