5 Wild trades for Raptors to flip Bruce Brown into a star this summer

2. Raptors convince Nets to part with Mikal Bridges

The Nets have rebuffed several offers for Mikal Bridges since acquiring him in the Kevin Durant trade in 2023. Teams have been willing to offer multiple first-round draft picks, and the Rockets even tried to give Brooklyn their selections back. Nothing has convinced the Nets to part with Bridges, but that may change this summer.

If they miss the playoffs and fail to trade for another marquee talent, they will be at a crossroads. Are they comfortable being stuck chasing the eighth seed every year? Brooklyn wants to win a championship, and the quickest path may be a total rebuild. The Nets will get a massive package for Bridges, and the Raptors love wings with versatility and two-way potential.

Bridges has never been an All-Star, but he proved capable of expanding his game. He is averaging over 21 points, nearly five rebounds, and almost four assists per contest this season as the Nets' number-one option. He would be comfortable settling in as the number two in Toronto behind Scottie Barnes and forming one of the scariest wing duos in the league.

The Nets walk away with five draft picks and Bruce Brown, who they could deal for another selection. Their newfound draft capital would allow them to chase talent or slowly rebuild around young players. They would not have their selections near the top of the draft, but Brooklyn must be bold to get back into contention.

If the Raptors cannot convince the Nets to part with Mikal Bridges, they may hope a true superstar becomes available and has interest in playing in Toronto.