Deron Williams: The Start of a Real Franchise in New Jersey

The Deron Williams trade shocked everybody—it shocked me too. But the thing is, this was not just a desperation trade for the Nets.

It was a trade to acquire someone they are going to build their future franchise around. Five to eight years ago, the Nets were great, with Richard Jefferson in his prime, Vince Carter and Jason Kidd. At that time, the Nets were really one of the better teams in the league.

Now, Avery Johnson is going to be the coach of another one of those teams.

The Nets made this trade, but people questioned them.

Was it smart to give up Favors? After all, Favors is playing well and he's still about three years away from his prime.

It's too late for doubt, though.

Williams' contract has him in New Jersey until after the 2012 season, unless, of course, he signs a contract extension. People think he won't want to—but I think he will.

Now, Williams was not thrilled with coming to New Jersey, nor should he have been. The Nets won 12 games last season; who would want to come to this team?

But, Williams is going to finish this season and want to be in New Jersey forever.

For starters, he's going to have spotlight all to himself. There is no other name in New Jersey right now.

Brook Lopez is good, but he's no All-Star. Plus, he's never been in the playoffs, unlike Williams.

Deron Williams is going to get so much popularity on such a small market team that he's going to feel that he is in the perfect place.

The Nets also have over 20 million dollars to play with in the offseason. Their projected salary for next season is 39 million.

However, don't be surprised if they shed the contract of Outlaw, Petro, Farmar, or Morrow either before the trade deadline or this offseason.

And, lots of money means a chance at lots of talent. They might wait until this offseason or next, but expect the Nets to grab a star. Whether it includes nabbing CP3, forcing Deron to the 2 or Dwight Howard, forcing Brooke to the 4, the Nets mean business.

The Nets are bringing a new franchise into Brooklyn next year. 

The new king of Brooklyn is never going to want to leave.