Sometimes, avoiding disaster in the NBA is as good as accomplishing a goal. If it could have been worse, one ought to count their blessings. 

Just ask the Brooklyn Nets. They appeared fast-tracked for combustion ahead of the 2022-23 season. Kevin Durant had issued a trade request, and the organization appeared motivated to trade Kyrie Irving. 

As of now, none of that appears likely to happen anymore. Kevin Durant has re-committed to the organization. We can only assume there’s an understanding that his friend Irving will remain in a Nets uniform as well. 

Now, the Nets look primed to once again contend for the NBA championship next season. Most are expecting them to stand pat with the roster they have.

What if they still swung a blockbuster trade to make a major upgrade? 

Here’s a deal that has them doing so by acquiring star guard Donovan Mitchell.

Utah Jazz Receive: G/F Ben Simmons, 2027 First-Round Pick (PHI via BKN), 2028 First-Round Pick (BKN), 2029 First-Round Pick (Swap – BKN) 

Brooklyn Nets Receive: G Donovan Mitchell