Nets GM Discusses Rebuild Timeline Ahead of Key Offseason

Brooklyn's draft position and free agent moves will be crucial in determining the franchise's path forward.

Apr. 16, 2026 at 1:49am

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a basketball game broken down into overlapping planes of vibrant blue, orange, and silver, conceptually representing the complex factors the Nets must consider in their rebuild.The Nets' offseason decisions will determine whether they can quickly rebuild or must remain patient with their young core.Brooklyn Today

Brooklyn Nets general manager Sean Marks discussed how the team's rebuild timeline could change this offseason, depending on factors like their draft position and available free agent options. With the Nets holding a top-7 pick in the upcoming draft and nearly $47 million in cap space, Marks said the team is in a position to be opportunistic and explore various paths forward for the franchise.

Why it matters

The Nets are in the midst of a rebuild after a disappointing 20-62 season, and the decisions they make this offseason could significantly shape the team's trajectory over the next few years. Their draft position and free agent acquisitions will be crucial in determining whether they can accelerate their rebuild and compete for a playoff spot next season, or if they need to remain patient with their young core.

The details

Marks explained that the Nets' offseason plans will depend on "what becomes available" and whether potential moves "fit our timeline" and "fit our approach" for developing their young players. With the Nets projected to have nearly $47 million in cap space, they could look to sign free agents to complement forward Michael Porter Jr. and center Nic Claxton. However, Marks said the team's lottery position, and potential selections like BYU's AJ Dybantsa or Illinois' Keaton Wagler, will also be a major factor in their decision-making process.

  • The Nets finished the 2025-26 season with the third-worst record (20-62) in the league.
  • Marks made these comments during his end-of-season exit interview on Monday.

The players

Sean Marks

The general manager of the Brooklyn Nets, who is responsible for overseeing the team's roster and rebuilding efforts.

Jordi Fernandez

The head coach of the Brooklyn Nets, who will work closely with Marks on the team's offseason plans.

Michael Porter Jr.

A forward for the Brooklyn Nets who is part of the team's young core.

Nic Claxton

A center for the Brooklyn Nets who is part of the team's young core.

AJ Dybantsa

A forward from BYU who is projected to be a top draft pick that the Nets could potentially select.

Keaton Wagler

A guard from Illinois who is projected to be a top draft pick that the Nets could potentially select.

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What they’re saying

“I think it depends a little on what becomes available. You just never know. And I think, again, we've put this Brooklyn Nets team and franchise in a place to be able to be opportunistic.”

— Sean Marks, General Manager

“Does that fit our timeline? Does this particular trade work for us right now? I mean, you can always add talent, but does that talent fit our approach and for the development of these young guys and fit in with the group that we have and so forth.”

— Sean Marks, General Manager

What’s next

The Nets will have a key role in the 2026 NBA Draft Lottery, where their pick position could significantly impact their offseason plans and timeline for contending. Marks and the front office will also explore free agent options to complement their young core.

The takeaway

The Nets' offseason moves will be crucial in determining whether they can accelerate their rebuild and compete for a playoff spot next season, or if they need to remain patient with their young core. Their draft position and free agent acquisitions will be the key factors that shape the franchise's timeline for contention.