Brooklyn Nets have filed their 2026‑27 active roster, revealing a $40.8 million contract for Michael Porter Jr. and a slew of rookie deals that reshape the team’s salary landscape. The move comes as the Nets sit on a five‑game skid, most recently falling 136‑101 to Toronto on April 12.
What does the new roster look like?
The Nets’ payroll now lists Michael Porter Jr. at $40.8 million, Nic Claxton at $23.3 million, and Terance Mann on a $15.5 million deal. Rookie contracts include Noah Clowney for $5.4 million and Nolan Traore at $4 million. Club options sit on Ziaire Williams and Day'Ron Sharpe for $6.2 million each. The list also features several two‑way players on sub‑$3 million deals, such as Drake Powell ($3.5 million) and Ben Saraf ($3 million).
Which players could leave?
Four restricted free agents-Chaney Johnson, Tyson Etienne, Jalen Wilson and E.J. Liddell-are slated to test the market. Ochai Agbaji also carries a restricted tag. Their decisions will dictate how much cap space the Nets retain for future moves.
How does recent form affect the outlook?
| Date | Result |
|---|---|
| 2026‑04‑12 | Toronto Raptors 136‑101 Brooklyn Nets |
| Recent form (last 5) | 0W‑0D‑5L |
The five straight losses underline a defensive lapse that the new roster must address. With Porter Jr. expected to anchor the paint, the Nets hope his scoring and rebounding will lift the team out of the bottom tier.
What are the salary implications?
The total guaranteed salary for the listed players tops $150 million, leaving roughly $30 million in cap room. That cushion could be used to re‑sign a restricted free agent or to add a veteran presence at the wing.
What’s next for Brooklyn Nets?
Coach Jacque Fell will likely experiment with lineups that blend veteran depth and rookie energy. Early season games will test whether the Nets can convert their financial flexibility into on‑court wins before the trade deadline. The next matchup against the Philadelphia 76ers could serve as a litmus test for the revamped roster’s chemistry.
The Nets’ front office now faces a tight window: convert salary space into tangible performance, halt the losing streak, and keep playoff aspirations alive.
