Nets draft class earns B grade, focus on rebuilding begins

The Brooklyn Nets received a B grade for their performance in the 2026 NBA Draft, where they selected three players, including guard Mikel Brown Jr. with the sixth overall pick. Brown averaged 18.2 points and 4.7 assists during his freshman year at Louisville, elevating expectations for the franchise's future. They also drafted Iowa State forward Joshua Jefferson and UCLA forward Tyler Bilodeau at the 28th and 43rd picks, respectively. The Nets previously acquired forward Julius Randle in a trade with the Minnesota Timberwolves. As they move into free agency, the Nets aim to leverage their draft selections to improve their standing after a 20-62 season.

• 11:31 AMYahoo Sports — Nets 2026 NBA Draft class receives B grade heading into free-agency