What do you want from me? It’s August, and with no basketball or significant news happening, my thoughts are drifting toward the upcoming NBA season.
I recently sat down with Erik Slater, host of Locked on Nets, and we talked about our most plausible yet still provocative predictions for the Brooklyn Nets. Will they secure a playoff spot? A Play-In Tournament berth? Could someone make the All-Star team or even land on an All-NBA squad? And will Michael Porter Jr. set aside the microphone?
Of course, these aren’t that outrageous. They need to be somewhat attainable, even if our rationale behind them varies. I’m starting on a optimistic note.
Egor Dëmin Makes All-Rookie First Team
I understand this may sound bold, but here’s my reasoning. Dëmin will likely get ample chances to generate stats this season, playing in an offense that focuses on ball movement and a lot of three-point attempts. While I don’t foresee him being a standout player right away, that’s a high bar for any rookie. Even highly touted prospects often struggle initially.
If Dëmin can hit his catch-and-shoot threes effectively, he could average around 14 points, 5 rebounds, and 6 assists per game, assuming he receives enough playing time. I trust Jordi Fernández, who previously led a top-tier pick-and-roll offense, will effectively utilize Dëmin’s skills.
Cam Thomas Gets Traded During the Season
As Slater mentioned, “The most likely scenario for him being traded is if he signs the qualifying offer.” This situation is easy to envision, especially since Thomas seems dissatisfied with his standing on the team. While we agreed he has a mere 30% chance of actually taking the qualifying offer, Brooklyn just has too many players desiring playing time.
Do the Nets still consider Thomas a key long-term asset, especially given their recent draft strategy? While they haven’t indicated a lack of faith in him directly, the overall roster choices raise questions about his future with the team.
Dariq Whitehead Isn’t a Net by Next Offseason
It’s easy to forget Whitehead was a first-round pick just two years ago. Just turning 21, he’s not a rookie anymore but hasn’t made much of an impact, including a less-than-productive season in the G League.
Supporters argue he hasn’t had a healthy offseason since high school, but the reality is that many first-round picks who struggle early rarely bounce back. He might be included in a trade or waived to clear space for new players. I honestly don’t believe this scenario is likely, but it’s a battle Whitehead faces.
Brooklyn Won’t Win 20 Games in 2025-26
This prediction is challenging against the Eastern Conference backdrop. While Brooklyn’s schedule features some winnable games, overall, they’re facing a tough stretch against playoff contenders. It’s unlikely they’ll start strong again this upcoming season. With only their own first-round pick available, they are undoubtedly in tank mode.
Importantly, they can tank effectively while trying to develop their young talent. There’s a significant incentive for Brooklyn to secure a top pick in the 2026 NBA Draft by playing their odds. This season might be rough, but their young roster could make them interesting to watch, even if they finish with a dismal record.
Finding bold predictions for the Brooklyn Nets isn’t easy given their limited range of possible outcomes. Erik and I put our heads together and explored more ideas—check out the full podcast on your favorite music streaming platforms.
When the dust settles, feel free to return here and tell Erik and me how wrong we were, or share your predictions below. After all, we need something to get us through these slow days. If you’re craving real basketball, the New York Liberty play Thursday at 7:00 p.m. ET against Angel Reese and the Chicago Sky!
