The Philadelphia 76ers have made an impactful move in free agency, signing Trendon Watford to a two-year, $5.3 million contract. As a versatile forward, Watford averaged a career-high 10.2 points, 3.6 rebounds, and 2.6 assists last season with the Brooklyn Nets. His ability to drive and create plays will be crucial for the Sixers, especially after a challenging 24-58 season. With a close friendship with Tyrese Maxey, Watford is expected to fit seamlessly into the team dynamics.

While the terms of the deal are yet to be officially announced, it includes a team option for the second year. Coach Nick Nurse plans to utilize Watford as a playmaker for the second unit, which could help in spacing the floor and drawing defenders, allowing for better opportunities for shooters on the team.

The Brooklyn Nets have made significant moves in the 2025 NBA offseason, including drafting five rookies and acquiring Michael Porter Jr. Recently, the Nets signed guard Nolan Traore, the 19th overall pick in the Draft, to a rookie deal just in time for the Las Vegas Summer League. Traore had been under contract with Saint-Quentin in France, requiring a buyout before joining the Nets.

With an impressive track record from Saint-Quentin, where he averaged 11.6 points, 1.7 rebounds, and 5.1 assists per game, Traore is expected to compete for a spot in the Nets' point guard rotation. His skill set suggests he could run an offense effectively, although he will need to refine his shooting and defensive skills under coach Jordi Fernandez.

The Brooklyn Nets are making strategic moves in the 2025 NBA offseason, focusing on roster improvement for the upcoming 2025-26 season. They've already made headlines by acquiring Michael Porter Jr. from the Denver Nuggets and securing multiple draft picks. However, a significant trade involving Kevin Durant from the Phoenix Suns to the Houston Rockets has drawn attention, potentially involving an NBA-record seven teams.

NBA insider Jake Fischer noted that the Nets were strategically included in the Durant deal, trading the No. 36 pick to the Suns for two second-round picks from Houston. Despite their efforts to improve through cap space deals, the Nets are not seeking a player of Durant's caliber, given their current position away from championship contention. Expect the Nets to complete their free-agency moves soon, especially regarding restricted free agent Cam Thomas.

The Brooklyn Nets are actively pursuing a trade for Golden State Warriors' forward Jonathan Kuminga, who has emerged as a potential target following the Nets' offseason moves, including trading Cam Johnson to the Nuggets for Michael Porter Jr. and a first-round draft pick. Kuminga, a 22-year-old rising star, averaged 15.3 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 2.2 assists in the previous season, showcasing his potential despite the Warriors' focus on veteran talent.

The Nets’ interest comes after selecting five rookies in the 2025 NBA Draft, indicating their commitment to building a young core. Alongside their recent acquisitions, the Nets hold several first-round picks, setting the stage for a competitive offer to the Warriors, who are reportedly looking for a promising young player plus a first-round pick in return for Kuminga. The market is heating up as several teams, including the Miami Heat and Chicago Bulls, have expressed interest, but Brooklyn’s recent trades could position them favorably.

Ryan Nembhard and Nolan Hickman, former Gonzaga Bulldogs guards, are set to showcase their skills together at the NBA Summer League with the Dallas Mavericks. Nembhard recently signed a two-way contract with the Mavs, while Hickman is expected to join him in Las Vegas. Both players will debut alongside several notable new talents, including top draft pick Cooper Flagg.

While Nembhard has secured his position, Hickman's journey is more precarious. Despite his impressive 44.5% shooting from beyond the arc last season, his size and skill set left him undrafted, pushing him to prove himself at the summer league. Alongside them, other Zags like Drew Timme and Anton Watson are also looking to carve out their NBA futures, making this a pivotal time for the Gonzaga alumni.