Late last week, NBA reporter Michael Scotto of HoopsHype revealed his Top NBA trade candidates for the 2023-24 season, and it contained a litany of information regarding Brooklyn and Sean Marks' plans. It appears Brookly could be very active before mid-February's deadline.
According to Scotto, two veteran wings, Dorian Finney-Smith and Royce O'Neale, are being monitored by opposing executives. Given his current contract situation, Scotto thinks the Nets will have high demands in a potential Finney-Smith deal.
"Given that Finney-Smith is signed through the 2024-25 season before a $15.38 million player option decision for the 2025-26 season, rival executives expect the Nets to continue to have a high asking price worth the equivalent of two first-round picks if they trade him with the hope that the asking price will drop closer to the trade deadline."Michael Scotto
Scotto pointed out that the ex-Maverick has drawn previous interest from the Miami Heat, Dallas Mavericks, Philadelphia 76ers, and Memphis Grizzlies.
Royce O'Neale may be Brooklyn's most logical trade candidate
O'Neale, an unrestricted free agent at season's end, could be used in a package for another player or sold off if Brooklyn's season goes sideways.
"A few executives who spoke with HoopsHype believe Brooklyn would want a protected first-round pick for O’Neale, an upcoming unrestricted free agent."Michael Scotto
In today's NBA, three-and-D wings are more valuable than ever, which could play into Sean Marks's favor in any potential O'Neale deal.
Nic Claxton and Spencer Dinwiddie are also players to watch
Scotto points out that Dinwiddie, who will be an unrestricted free agent at season's end, and Claxton, who will reach restricted free agency at season's end, are being monitored by opposing executives. With the continued emergence of Cam Thomas and Lonnie Walker, whom Brooklyn definitely doesn't regret signing this summer, Dinwiddie's role with Brooklyn will likely slowly diminish, so a trade could make sense.
As for Claxton, how much is Brooklyn willing to pay him this summer? If they are eager to break the bank, don't entertain discussions. But if Marks has a limit, he should see what value Claxton holds on the market.