NBA Rumors: Dwight Howard and OJ Mayo Would Make Nets Contenders

If the Nets' front office can make two of the deals that have been rumored, they will be a formidable young team in the Eastern Conference. Most everyone knows of their hot pursuit of Dwight Howard, and the big man's mutual interest in the Brooklyn bound team, but there is a new name to add to the list.

The almost traded, O.J. Mayo is rumored to be part of a deal that would land him with the Nets in exchange for Anthony Morrow or Jordan Farmar. The Grizzlies have twice agreed to trades for Mayo, only to have the trades nullified by technicalities and changes of heart.

It's time for the move to be made, it is in the best interest of both parties. Mayo's career is being wasted in Memphis and the Grizzlies are looking to move him now or lose him as a restricted free-agent over the summer.

If these trades are completed, the Nets would have a strong young nucleus with Deron Williams, Mayo and Howard. The Mayo move may be a move that allows them to include rookie Marshon Brooks in their proposal to the Magic for Howard. Brooks is second among all rookies in scoring at 14.3 points per game.

This would be a hit to the Nets depth, but they would have assembled their own big three. It would be the least expensive of all, as Mayo has not yet performed at a level that warrants a max contract. Still, he has big time scoring potential, he just needs the minutes.

Mayo averaged 18.5 points per game as rookie. His scoring average has dipped every year, along with his minutes.

This is an attractive core to introduce to the Brooklyn fan base. Though it isn't quite a championship contender, as the Nets will need to add some quality bench players to join the level of the elite teams in the league.

Still, the team will be as good as they've been in decades and the foundation would be set to seriously contend for years to come.

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