The Oklahoma City Thunder will host the Indiana Pacers in Game 5 of the NBA Finals on Monday night, but that's far from the only news item in the league right now. Not only did the Memphis Grizzlies deal Desmond Bane to the Orlando Magic on Sunday, but trade rumors are circulating about the upcoming NBA Draft.
This draft class features big names such as Duke's Cooper Flagg as well as star Rutgers duo Dylan Harper and Ace Bailey. However, several other high-profile collegiate players are also projected first-round picks, such as Baylor's VJ Edgecombe, Duke's Kon Kneuppel, and Duke's Khaman Maluach.
Multiple teams want to move up in the draft, via RG.org's Grant Afseth.
Brooklyn Nets general manager Sean Marks.
Brooklyn Nets general manager Sean Marks.
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"The Boston Celtics, Oklahoma City Thunder, and Nets are among the most active teams exploring first-round trade-ups, sources tell RG," he reported on Monday.
“Boston holds picks No. 28 and 32 and has been discreet in its evaluation of point guard prospects," he continued. "Oklahoma City holds picks No. 15 and 24 along with a deep stockpile of assets. Brooklyn is considered one of the most aggressive teams in the trade market, holding four first-round picks (Nos. 8, 19, 26, and 27).”
The Nets acquired the No. 19 pick from the Milwaukee Bucks, No. 26 from the New York Knicks, and No. 27 from the Houston Rockets. They also own the No. 36 pick.
Teams ahead of Brooklyn in the top 10 include the New Orleans Pelicans at No. 7, the Washington Wizards at No. 6, and the Utah Jazz at No. 5.