Nets Prove They Mean Business With Julius Randle Trade

Last week, Julius Randle was traded to the Brooklyn Nets in a pre-draft blockbuster.

The Brooklyn Nets made one of the biggest moves of the NBA offseason Monday night, acquiring three-time All-Star Randle from the Minnesota Timberwolves in a surprising three-team trade that could reshape the future of multiple franchises. The deal was completed less than 24 hours before the 2026 NBA Draft.
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Minnesota sent Randle and the 28th overall pick in the draft to the Nets. The Nets sent center Nic Claxton to the Chicago Bulls, while Minnesota received the 33rd overall pick from Brooklyn and additional salary cap flexibility.

Randle was productive for the Timberwolves, but they decided to move on. Brooklyn aggressively pursued him to add a proven frontcourt presence as it continues its rebuild. Randle, who is 31 years old, averaged 21 points, six rebounds and five assists in the 2025-26 NBA season and remains one of the league’s most productive forwards.

The trade marks Randle’s return to New York. He played for the Knicks not long ago, spending five years with the team. During his time in the big city, Randle became a fan favorite, earned multiple All-Star selections and helped lead the Knicks back into playoff contention.

The Nets now have a proven scorer in Michael Porter Jr. and several promising young players. Brooklyn is still in a rebuilding phase, but this deal should help them win more games next season. For now, one thing is certain: Randle is headed back to New York, and the Nets have made one of the boldest moves of the offseason.