Brooklyn Nets Targeting 3 Huge Names in "Star Search" Hunt This Summer

The Brooklyn Nets are already focusing on the future with the 2024-25 season pretty much a write-off as expected. Many observers were surprised, then, that they held on to top trade asset Cameron Johnson at the deadline. Turns out there was a method to the madness.

According to insider Brian Windhorst of ESPN, the Nets will be going "Star Searching" this summer, and they see Johnson as "either a very good fit as a role player next to a star or an attractive player to use in a trade to get that star."

The three huge names they are thought to be targeting this offseason are as follows:

Giannis Antetokounmpo, Milwaukee Bucks

LaMelo Ball, Charlotte Hornets

Tyrese Haliburton, Indiana Pacers

Could Giannis Move On From Milwaukee?

Back at the trade deadline, SNY's Ian Begley called Giannis "the dream acquisition for Brooklyn." First, though, the Greek Freak would have to force his way out of Milwaukee, where his new 3-year, $175 million extension doesn't even kick in until next season. But that sort of thing has never stopped NBA superstars from asking out before.

Giannis says he has no intentions of asking out of Milwaukee, but if it happened, "NBA is business, if I got traded I would inform my family and would do my job," he said.

LaMelo Ball A Name To Watch on Trade Market This Summer

LaMelo Ball is a name to watch on the trade market this summer, per @MikeAScotto

“Following the Luka Doncic trade, NBA executives around the league have expanded their horizons on which potential stars could be next to change teams. The availability of Hornets guard LaMelo Ball… pic.twitter.com/NZYunhQw0F
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) March 3, 2025

Per insider Michael Scotto, Hornets guard LaMelo Ball is one of the stars several executives who spoke with HoopsHype said they will be monitoring on the trade market this summer.

And the Nets will be one of those doing the monitoring.

Is Tyrese Haliburton a Trade Candidate If Pacers Fizzle?

The Pacers star point guard is just starting his 5-year, $244 million contract with Indiana this season. But what if they fizzle out of the playoffs? Will either side think about relocating? The Nets will be keeping an eye out.