Brook Lopez has excelled as one of the NBA’s top centers throughout his career. This summer, he will become an unrestricted free agent. The Milwaukee Bucks may part ways with Lopez as they decide whether to restructure their roster or rebuild. Amid these uncertainties, there could be a possible Lopez and Nets reunion. Let’s dive into this exciting possibility.
Could Brook Lopez Return to the Nets?
The Nets drafted Lopez with the 10th pick in the 2008 NBA Draft. Lopez played for the franchise for 10 seasons, earning All-Star recognition during that time. Lopez totaled over 10,000 career points with the Nets and is the franchise’s all-time leading scorer. Toward the end of his Nets tenure, Lopez expanded his range and became a floor-spacing big, a skill that further developed with the Bucks. In 2017, the Nets traded Lopez and the draft rights to Kyle Kuzma (the 27th pick) to the Los Angeles Lakers. In return, they received D’Angelo Russell and Timofey Mozgov.
Lopez Time With The Bucks
After one season with the Lakers, Lopez signed with the Milwaukee Bucks. In 2021, he celebrated his first championship victory with the team. Later, he played alongside his brother Robin Lopez and, in 2024, secured the NBA Cup championship.
This season, Lopez appeared in 80 games and averaged 31.8 minutes, 13 points, 5 rebounds, 1.8 assists, and 1.9 blocks per game. Recently, Bucks coach Doc Rivers made lineup changes that reduced Lopez’s playoff minutes against the Pacers. In the playoffs, Lopez averaged just 14.8 minutes and five points. Consequently, these adjustments may significantly influence Lopez’s choice to remain with the Bucks or join another contending team.
Possible Lopez and Nets Reunion
Lopez has excelled throughout his career as a quality two-way big man. At 37, he aims to finish his career at a competitive level. A Nets reunion remains possible; however, Lopez would likely come off the bench due to Nic Claxton’s starting role. Additionally, this depends on whether the Nets re-sign backup center Day’Ron Sharpe, an unrestricted free agent this summer.
While the Nets are rebuilding and not focused on signing veteran players right now, Lopez would bring value to the team. The team needs vocal leadership and mentorship, qualities Lopez embodies. During the super team era of James Harden, Kyrie Irving, and Kevin Durant, the Nets lacked vocal leaders, which led to their collapse. Now, the rebuilding Nets require veterans with strong leadership, and Lopez offers championship experience, earned minutes, and a respected presence.
Other Teams That Might Be Interested
Lopez could bring value to other teams aiming for a championship. The Lakers, addressing center issues, might pursue him. Additionally, the Miami Heat and Chicago Bulls could also express interest.
The Nets play under the world’s largest market, New York City, where wins are expected daily. With the Knicks thriving as basketball’s top team, the Nets must make offseason moves. Rumors link Lopez’s teammate Giannis Antetokounmpo as a trade target and Warriors forward Jonathan Kuminga as a free agent target. Once Lopez retires, the Nets will likely honor his legacy by retiring his No. 11 jersey. However, it would be great to see him in a Nets uniform again before he retires.
Photo credit: © Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
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