It has been eight years since Brook Lopez left Brooklyn, but you know what? It might be time for a homecoming. Yes, Brook Lopez is 37 years old. Yes, the Nets are in the middle of their rebuild. And yes, this kind of move probably wasn’t on your offseason to do list. But let’s be honest, which Brooklyn fan would not want to see Brook Lopez back in a Nets jersey, even if just for one last dance?
Last season, Lopez proved he still has plenty left in the tank, averaging 13 points, 5 rebounds, and 2.5 blocks while playing 80 games for the Milwaukee Bucks. His ability to space the floor with his three-point shooting, protect the rim, and provide veteran leadership would make him a great fit for the Nets, especially as they continue to build for the future.
Brooklyn’s center situation is in a tough position. With Nic Claxton likely being traded and Day'Ron Sharpe heading into restricted free agency, the Nets have a glaring need at the 5 spot. That is where Lopez comes in. Not only could he provide the stability Brooklyn’s frontcourt desperately needs, but he is also someone who has had tremendous experience, having played in the NBA for 16 seasons. His experience and leadership would be invaluable for a team in transition.
Here is where it gets interesting:
The Nets already have a player on their roster who could benefit a lot from Lopez’s return…D’Angelo Russell. Before Lopez’s trade to the Los Angeles Lakers a few years ago, he and Russell formed a solid on-court partnership in Brooklyn. Lopez was a reliable big who could space the floor with his shooting, and Russell was the playmaking guard who could facilitate. The two developed a strong chemistry during their time together.
Fast forward to today
If Russell stays with the Nets (has the choice to opt into his player option), that same dynamic could quickly resurface. The two could reignite their chemistry, this time in a more mature, veteran-focused version of the pick-and-pop game.
Of course, Brooklyn isn’t expected to compete for a championship just yet, but adding Lopez would provide the team with a reliable presence on both ends of the floor. His leadership, defensive strengths, and scoring ability would help mentor the younger players they could possibly go after in the draft. And for the fans, it would be a nice reminder of the days when the Nets had a solid core that looked like it could contend for years to come.
A reunion with Lopez would be more than just a nostalgia play, it would be a calculated move. If Lopez is open to returning, the Nets should absolutely make it happen. After all, sometimes the best way to move forward is to bring back what worked before.