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Best options for Brooklyn Nets in a Blazers trade

By Josh Rudy

Feb 19, 2016; Brooklyn, NY, USA; Brooklyn Nets new general manager Sean Marks speaks to the media during a press conference before a game against the New York Knicks at Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports
Feb 19, 2016; Brooklyn, NY, USA; Brooklyn Nets new general manager Sean Marks speaks to the media during a press conference before a game against the New York Knicks at Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports /
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Dec 7, 2016; Milwaukee, WI, USA; Portland Trail Blazers forward Maurice Harkless (4) during the game against the Milwaukee Bucks at BMO Harris Bradley Center. Milwaukee won 115-107. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 7, 2016; Milwaukee, WI, USA; Portland Trail Blazers forward Maurice Harkless (4) during the game against the Milwaukee Bucks at BMO Harris Bradley Center. Milwaukee won 115-107. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports /

1) Maurice Harkless

Contract: $9.6 million (2017-18); $10.3 (2018-19); $11.0 (2019-20)

2016-17 Statistics: 77 GP (69 starts); 28.9 Minutes/Game; 10.0 PPG, 4.4 RPG, 1.2 APG

Harkless, having the smallest contract of the four candidates, while potentially possessing the most upside, is the best option for Brooklyn. At 24 years old, Harkless will be entering his sixth year in the league.

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Before landing in Portland, he spent the first three seasons of his career in Orlando. ‘Moe’ has always been a steady contributor, but last season, he showed he is capable of more. Not known for his shooting ability, Harkless connected on 35% of his three-point attempts (194), en route to posting a career-high 50.3% total field goal percentage. He also posted career numbers in rebounds, blocks and assists, all crucial aspects of a developing player.

Standing at 6’9″, Harkless is normally slotted in the small forward position (68% of minutes), but has the necessary versatility and strength to slide to power forward (32% of minutes). He’s a willing defender and has the ability to guard multiple positions on the floor.

The Knicks were rumored to be in “discussions” with Portland involving a trade centered around Harkless earlier this week, so it is clear Portland is open for negotiations. The problem for the Knicks however, is they don’t possess the same amount of cap space as Brooklyn, making them less likely of an option.

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Without a doubt, the Nets will, if they have not already, dig deeper into the situation. They have the flexibility to make a trade for any of the previously mentioned players. Many believe Portland is looking to ship off their later first-round picks, opposed to their #15 pick. Do the Nets want 3 picks in the 20’s? It gives them tons of flexibility, and it gets them one step closer to building the foundation for the future. They could opt to package two of the picks and move up, or keep all three. Marks already enjoys the flexibility of two first-rounders, and would without a doubt welcome the opportunity to possess three come draft night.

However, there’s also a chance the Nets decide not to make a deal with Portland. Whatever happens, it is guaranteed not to be the last time the Nets are involved in trade rumors this off-season. Stay tuned.