With rumors swirling around Nets free agency many Nets fans are worried about D’Angelo Russell not returning.
What a time to be alive! Back in March of this year Nets fans on social media were speaking of “tanking”, mentioning names such as Zion Williamson and R.J Barrett. They seemed convinced that the Nets could NOT pull themselves out of an 8 game losing streak that had seen them go toe to toe with playoff teams, however unable to seal the deal. After all, this is something that they have become accustomed to after witnessing, in prior seasons, uninspired, heartless and gutless play from big names who either mentally checked out or left their heart in Boston.
But then, something happened. Something magical. Something that this town and even more importantly the fan base needed…they TURNED THE CORNER! After that gruesome injury to Caris Levert, who was beginning to show signs of being their leader happened and that created the slide of that treacherous 8-game losing streak, Someone stepped up. They all did. From D’Angelo Russell all the way down to the bench mob captain Theo Pinson, everyone had a hand in creating something magical in Brooklyn.
Now, after a 42 win season along with a first-round playoff battle and ouster to the Philthydelphia 76ers, fans and surprisingly media are all focused on The 30th day of June at 6 P.M. As that day is the start of the most wonderful time of the year for NBA fans, free agency!
So, like I said at the beginning of this article – WHAT A TIME TO BE ALIVE (if you’re a Nets fan, of course)!. For the first time in the history of Nets basketball, and a begrudgingly, horrendous past four seasons, they are heavy into the conversation to land a stud free agent.
However…..AT WHAT COST?
With the rumors swirling so early this season that there is legitimate interest from Kyrie Irving and Kevin Durant and having the salary cap in place along with the year that D’Angelo Russell just had, Nets fans know something has to give.
Before I continue, just take a moment to realize what we are actually talking about. The Brooklyn Nets, Kyrie Irving, Kevin Durant. Let that sink in…
Has it? From a place where they were a few short seasons ago to now mentioning some of the games best donning the black and white is remarkable.
Now think about what else the Nets have done. Think about getting a 21-year-old point guard and transforming him in TWO years to a 23-year-old all-star who has shown continued growth and leadership.
This is the conundrum the Nets have found themselves in. As fans are torn as to what would be the best move for the team moving forward. If you scour social media, you will find an abundance of fans who want the Kyrie/KD connection and some fans who want D’lo back regardless. However, in my humble opinion, there is no wrong answer.
Either way, you’re coming out increasingly better than what you were last season. Either with proven all-stars or the next big thing.
One thing Nets fans are, but should not be worried about is bad management and leadership at the top of the franchise. Marks has spoken in the past of “sweat equity” and not making a move just for the sake of making a move. He has brought this franchise back from the depths of an NBA hell using smart, tactical decisions. I do not see him making such an incompetent move now when our team is on the verge of bigger things to come. This is not Manhattan. This is not Billy King. This is Sean Freakin Marks.
For those that are new here, we have a saying and it goes like this…
“In Marks We Trust”.
And I still do.
Featured Image: Nathaniel S. Butler/NBAE/Getty Images
