1. Shifting balance of power in the East
The Nets are definitely going to be a true NBA Title contender come the 2021 playoffs. Even with Kyrie in the mix now, the Nets are going to have elevated status in the East. As good as Russell was a a first-time All-Star with the Nets last season, landing Kyrie is still an upgrade at the point guard position over him.
What was brilliant for the Nets to do at the outset of free agency was keeping a good portion of the young core together while also landing Kyrie and KD. Other solid pieces that can contribute in good spots in the rotation for the Nets include Spencer Dinwiddie, Caris LeVert, and Jarrett Allen.
There is going to be nothing but depth and talent for the Chicago Bulls to compete with as it pertains to the Nets. I can’t overlook the importance for the Nets frontcourt rotation for next season by landing veteran and former All-Star center DeAndre Jordan after his time with the Knicks was done.
When KD returns from this Achilles injury, it will be difficult for another team in the East to jump to the top like the Bulls. What the Bulls would need at this point is for a current possible rising star on the roster like Lauri Markkanen or Zach LaVine to finally step up and reach their very high ceilings.