Jay-Z has not abandoned the Brooklyn Nets, but has openly admitted to supporting both New York basketball teams next season. Jay-Z, a former Brooklyn Nets co-owner and crucial factor in moving the franchise to the city from New Jersey, was recently asked to choose between the high-flying Knicks and the sinking Nets for next season. Instead of renouncing his affection for the Nets, Jay-Z made it plain that he will support whichever club represents his city. The Knicks will contend for the NBA Championship next season, especially after obtaining Mikal Bridges from their rival Nets. They could have easily made the Conference Finals if they stayed healthy throughout the Playoffs last season, but they couldn’t get there.
Finish line. The trade for Bridges between the Nets and the Knicks was only the sixth time the two organisations were able to reach an agreement, with the last being over four decades ago. It reaffirmed the Nets’ commitment to rebuilding for the 2025 NBA Draft, with the Rockets sending future Rocket picks to the Nets.
The Knicks spent such a high price to acquire Bridges because they believe he’d be an ideal role player next to someone like Jalen Brunson. With Julius Randle also requiring a high-usage offensive approach, Bridges is the ideal multi-positional player to rely on in the NBA.
Jay-Z, Knicks or Nets?
“Both. New York City.” pic.twitter.com/YYqXTKmpRj— Peter Botte (@PeterBotte) August 17, 2024
Bridges averaged 19.6 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 3.6 assists in a disappointing year for the struggling Nets before being released to join the Knicks as part of a blockbuster summer deal.
Mikal Bridges has never demanded a trade.
We’re not debating who Jay-Z will ultimately root for this season, considering the Nets and Knicks are in complete opposing directions on the court. The Knicks hope to emerge as legitimate title contenders, whilst the Nets would be fine with finishing 15th in the Conference to maximise their chances in the Draft next season.
Rumours circulated that Bridges wanted to be traded from the Nets, but they were quickly dispelled by Nets general manager Sean Marks.
“I believe it was rumoured that Mikal wanted to depart or request a trade. This could not be further from the truth. That is not in Mikal’s character; it is not who he is, and it did not happen. I called him up and told him we were at the two-yard line.”
“We will not turn down an offer like this from a team… I believe that this was the greatest path for us to take right now, rather than waiting, and that we could have continued to wait. I mean, there are plenty of individuals that want to play with Mikal and others since he is an incredible skill. And “We will miss him.” Last season, it was evident that Bridges was stuck with a middle-of-the-pack franchise. The Nets failed not make the playoffs, and everyone could see why Mikal as the No. 1 choice isn’t ideal for competing success. Bridges, on the other hand, thrives in roles surrounded by other stars, which is exactly what he’s been given this season. Thank you for reading Fadeaway World. If you enjoyed this story, please follow us on Google News. We sincerely appreciate your support.
Leave a Reply