10 Players the Nets may replace Ben Simmons with by the trade deadline
By Tyler Watts
2. Trae Young
If the Nets trade Ben Simmons, they need another ball-handler. Spencer Dinwiddie can carry the mail, but he is best as a secondary creator or sixth man leading the second unit. He thrived in Dallas playing off Luka Doncic and Jalen Brunson. Could Brooklyn add one of the best playmakers in the league to provide star talent?
Young averaged 26.2 points, 10.2 assists, 3.0 rebounds, and 1.1 steals per game last season. He can make shots from anywhere on the floor and is an elite passer. If the Nets are worried about Simmons being unwilling to attack, Young would instantly solve those issues.
The Hawks want to contend, but can they do it with Trae Young’s defense? He is one of the worst in the league and his size makes it difficult to hide him. Could Atlanta thrive with Ben Simmons being their lead playmaker and giving them a massive defensive upgrade? It is worth considering for the Hawks, who have struggled since making the conference finals in 2021.
Ice Trae would be a fantastic fit in Brooklyn because the Nets have a ton of wing depth. Mikal Bridges is the perfect complement for Young. The current Net can sink open shots and defend the opposition’s best scorer every night. That leaves Young to run the offense and do what he does best.