NBA Trade Rumors: Brooklyn Nets pursue Serge Ibaka as Stephen A. Smith tags them as favorites even without James Harden
The Brooklyn Nets look to be one of the strongest sides going into the NBA 2020-21 season, and are eager to iron out the deficiencies in their roster. As per the latest NBA Trade Rumors, Serge Ibaka has been linked with a move to the Nets, joining former teammate Kevin Durant.
Amid the turmoil that the Houston Rockets are currently in, star James Harden has also been linked in NBA Trade Rumors with the Brooklyn Nets. However, Stephen A. Smith is reluctant to say if it is likely.
NBA Trade Rumors: Brooklyn Nets pursue center Serge Ibaka
One of the most notable NBA free agents this off season has been Raptors center Serge Ibaka. The latest NBA Trade Rumors suggest that Ibaka could be on his way to join Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving in Brooklyn.
Ibaka has been prolific since moving to the Toronto Raptors. Initially played as a power forward, Ibaka was moved to center in the Raptors' title-winning campaign. He has averaged 15 points and 8 rebounds in the last two seasons on only 27 minutes. Having another consistent and high percentage shooter alongside Durant and Kyrie could make the Nets' offense even more menacing.
Serge Ibaka's defensive abilities were reignited when he moved back to center and averaged 6 defensive rebounds last year. He has playoff experience and Championship caliber, and alongside Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving, could make the Nets serious contenders next season. He would, however, have to take a dramatic pay cut to move to the Nets, which could hold him back.
NBA Trade Rumors: Stephen A. Smith believes Brooklyn Nets could win it all without Harden
Harden could be on his way out of Houston
As one of the most exciting prospects in the East, the Brooklyn Nets are insistent on gathering the best possible roster for their 2020-21 season. As per recent NBA Trade Rumors, James Harden may be moving from the Houston Rockets. This, combined with the Nets' search for additional talent, has led to speculation that the guard may join fellow All-Stars Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving in Brooklyn.
In the latest look at the NBA Trade Rumors surrounding Harden on ESPN's 'First Take' show, Stephen A. Smith believes that the Brooklyn Nets may be the favorites to win the East, even if they don't get Harden:
"I think they could easily be deemed the favorites to come out of the East right now without James Harden."
Smith went on to discuss what it would take for a team to acquire Harden:
"Somebody's got to be willing to put together a deal that will enable you to get strong compensation for his services."
Therefore, a deal for James Harden to the Brooklyn Nets may prove too much for the Eastern Conference side. Maintaining a more rounded roster alongside their two superstars, and possibly the acquisition of Serge Ibaka, could prove a more tactically sound route to take.