An NBA writer has suggested that the Houston Rockets consider acquiring Mikal Bridges from the Brooklyn Nets during the upcoming offseason. Zach Buckley from Bleacher Report outlined a potential trade scenario between the Rockets and Nets, proposing that Houston send Dillon Brooks, Cam Whitmore, the No. 1 pick in the draft, and two future first-round picks in exchange for Bridges.
Reports from NBA insider Shams Charania indicate that the Rockets previously attempted to trade Jalen Green to the Nets for Bridges during the current season. However, both the Rockets and the Nets failed to make the playoffs this year.
Despite the Rockets’ efforts, insider Marc Stein revealed that the Nets showed no interest in trading Bridges for a package centered around Green. The Rockets made multiple aggressive offers for Bridges, but Brooklyn remained unwilling to part ways with the forward.
Bridges had an impressive season with the Nets, averaging 19.6 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 3.6 assists per game while shooting 43.6% from the field, 37.2% from three-point range, and 81.4% from the free-throw line. He is set to earn $23.3 million in the upcoming season.
Buckley noted that despite missing out on the Play-In Tournament, the Rockets’ second phase of rebuilding showed promise, with significant improvements in win total and defense, as well as development from key young players like Alperen Şengün, Jabari Smith Jr., and Jalen Green. This progress may prompt the front office to consider advancing to the next phase of rebuilding.
Given Houston’s possession of Brooklyn’s future draft picks, including the 2026 selection and swap rights for 2027, Buckley suggested that the Rockets could offer a substantial package for Bridges. However, he also questioned whether Bridges, at 27 years old, has already reached his peak, making the proposed trade a considerable investment.
Bridges, originally drafted by the Phoenix Suns as the 10th overall pick in the 2018 NBA Draft, holds career averages of 14.3 points, 4.1 rebounds, and 2.6 assists between his time with the Suns and the Nets.
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