Brooklyn Nets: Best and worst-case scenarios for the 2021-22 season

Worst-case scenario: Injuries and drama derail Brooklyn’s title run

Let’s change directions here for a second and look at the nightmare situation for the Nets next season. Obviously, the easy answer is all of the “Big 3”  end up getting hurt and miss the entire playoffs, but that seems a little out there. Even for a worst-case scenario. Instead, let’s look at it more realistically.

Last season, Brooklyn was plagued with what seemed like constant injury troubles. Durant, Harden, and Irving all missed time during the regular season, and things didn’t get better for Harden and Irving in the playoffs. Aldridge also retired shockingly during the regular season due to a heart condition (but has been medically cleared and has returned to the Nets).

Another season of constant nagging injuries could really ruin Brooklyn’s chances at developing chemistry and comfort heading into the playoffs. It could also lead to a lower seeding and a much tougher path to the NBA Finals.

Injuries wouldn’t be Brooklyn’s only concern though. If the Nets underachieve to start the season we could see them potentially make moves to try and right the ship. There was a recent rumor that Durant shut down a potential “Ben Simmons for Kyrie Irving” trade. If these rumors are true, it shows that Brooklyn’s front office isn’t afraid to break up their “Big 3”.  A slow start could lead to a desperate move similar to that one.

Nets’ head coach Steve Nash could also find himself on the hot seat if he doesn’t get his team clicking on all cylinders in the first couple weeks of the season. Many questioned his ability as a head coach when he was hired before last season. Another disappointing season with one of the most talented rosters ever could be the beginning of the end of his tenure with the Nets.