Nets Rumors: Suns' Mikal Bridges Admired 'From Afar' Amid Kyrie Irving Trade Buzz

The Brooklyn Nets remain interested in Phoenix Suns wing Mikal Bridges amid news that Nets point guard Kyrie Irving has requested a trade.

Michael Scotto of HoopsHype provided the report.

"With new ownership coming to Phoenix, there have been rumblings about the team finding a potential long-term successor at point guard to future Hall of Famer Chris Paul, with Fred VanVleet, D'Angelo Russell, and now Irving mentioned as possible trade targets.

"It's worth noting that Mikal Bridges, who came up in trade talks for Durant over the summer, remains a player Brooklyn likes from afar, league sources told HoopsHype.

"Phoenix's interest and ability to pursue a deal are currently uncertain amid the ownership transition."

Shams Charania of Stadium and The Athletic previously reported that the Los Angeles Lakers, Dallas Mavericks and Suns "have emerged as potential suitors" for Irving, an eight-time All-Star averaging 27.1 points, 5.3 assists and 5.1 rebounds per game. He is an impending free agent playing out his 2022-23 option for $37 million.

The 26-year-old Bridges is posting 17.0 points, 4.3 rebounds and 3.6 assists. He signed a four-year, $90.9 million contract extension with the Suns through 2026.

This season has been a disappointing one for the 28-26 Suns, who finished with the NBA's best record at 64-18 the year before.

However, Bridges is part of the solution for brighter days in Phoenix, and the Suns would be best served keeping him on the roster unless they get an offer they can't refuse.

Bridges has developed his offensive game this year, to the point where he's averaged 23.2 points in his last 11 games. The Suns have also turned a corner in recent weeks despite missing star guard Devin Booker (groin strain), going 7-2 in their last nine games.

Unless the Suns hypothetically get a megastar like Kevin Durant in return, any deal with the Nets involving Bridges seems shortsighted. Irving is a great player in his own right but can leave in free agency this offseason.

For now, the Suns forge ahead with Bridges enjoying a fantastic season and coming off a 25-point outing in an upset road win over the NBA-best Boston Celtics.