The Brooklyn Nets have been projected to finish with the NBA's worst record at 18-64 in ESPN's latest summer forecast. This pessimistic outlook arrives as the team looks to rebound from a 20-62 season and a recent 136-101 loss to the Toronto Raptors on April 12, 2026.
What did ESPN project for the Nets?
ESPN's group of NBA insiders released their team-by-team predictions for the 2026-27 season. They have the Nets winning just 18 games, which would be two fewer than their total from the previous campaign. The outlet's commentary was brief, noting Brooklyn added former All-NBA forward Julius Randle to provide legitimacy to its rebuild, as stated by writer Jamal Collier.
This projection places the Nets at the very bottom of the league standings. It's a stark assessment for a franchise hoping to show progress. You can track their position throughout the season on our [standings](/standings) page.
Why is this projection considered disrespectful?
Many observers see the forecast as overly harsh given Brooklyn's roster activity. The Nets were not a good team last season, struggling on both offense and defense. However, projecting a decline after adding a player of Randle's caliber is seen as a slight.
Randle may not have been the superstar Minnesota needed, but he is a proven floor-raiser who can score and rebound. His presence should improve the team's offensive output immediately. The loss of center Nic Claxton will hurt the defense, but it's argued he was not an irreplaceable All-Star.
How is the current Nets roster shaping up?
The team is banking on internal development to defy these low expectations. Center Day'Ron Sharpe is positioned for a potential breakout year, as highlighted in a recent analysis. The rest of the rotation appears stronger on paper compared to last season.
Brooklyn's recent form shows a mixed bag, with two wins and three losses in their last five outings (LLLWW). They lost their final three games of the previous season. This inconsistency is a key challenge for head coach and his staff to address.
What's next for the Brooklyn Nets?
The Nets enter the new season with clear motivation to prove the doubters wrong. Their offseason moves, headlined by the Randle acquisition, are designed to accelerate the rebuilding process. The team's performance will be a direct test of these projections.
Fans can follow the team's progress through the upcoming [fixtures](/fixtures). The core of Mikal Bridges, Cam Thomas, and now Julius Randle will need to gel quickly to improve on both ends of the court. Success will be measured by tangible improvement in wins and competitive spirit, aiming to move up from the NBA's basement.
