If anyone thought the Nets would be changing course with their plans for Paul Millsap because of the latest injury to impact the team, then they’d be mistaken.
It was reported last month that Nets had agreed to move Millsap to a team where he could have a greater contribution. Brooklyn is also reportedly looking for a veteran that can help the team win now.
Aldridge’s injury hasn’t appeared to change the thinking for Nash or the Nets.
“I think that Paul wants to go somewhere where he has a better chance to play,” Nash said ahead of Tuesday’s loss to Phoenix. “LaMarcus is a short-term injury and Day’Ron (Sharpe) has played really well. Nothing has really changed there.”
Aldridge suffered a right ankle sprain in the Nets loss to Golden State over the weekend and Nash told revealed to reporters earlier on Tuesday that he would miss the remainder of the trip.
Millsap had seen his role with the Nets dwindle as the season went on. He has not played since Dec. 27 against the Los Angeles Clippers, when he was on the court for just 9:31.
In 24 games this year, the former NBA All-Star has averaged 3.4 points and 3.7 rebounds.
Millsap has been in Atlanta training while the Nets have tried to move him elsewhere, according to NBA insider Chris Haynes. During the TNT broadcast of Tuesday’s game, Haynes said that he had spoken to Millsap and that the veteran told him his body felt great, and he knows he can still help a team win.
My @NBAonTNT report on Paul Millsap who is in Atlanta training while Brooklyn Nets search for a trade. In a phone conversation with the veteran, he spoke about the matter for the first time. pic.twitter.com/gnWDJUKgwq
— Chris Haynes (@ChrisBHaynes) February 2, 2022
While the Nets look to deal Millsap, he could end up being bought out as well following the NBA Trade Deadline next week and there appear to be interested parties. Bleacher Report’s Jake L. Fischer reported that the Los Angeles Lakers have been mentioned as a possible suitor should Millsap reach the buyout market.
HoopsHype’s Michael Scotto also mentioned that Chicago could be another potential landing spot for Millsap should he be bought out.
