While the Brooklyn Nets consider trading him, Brook Lopez took care of business on Friday.
Staying with the team is fine with him, so as long as he is a member of the Nets, Lopez will give the team his best.
In a commanding and surprising 102-80 victory over the Washington Wizards, Lopez showed his old magic. His second half produced 25 points; his first, one. If nothing else, Lopez upped his trade value should the Nets decide to continue pursuing offers.
The secret to his success: Been there, done that.
“I’ve been on the block for like 6½ years,” Lopez said. “So it’s no big deal.”
What is a big deal is the Nets' expensive and unproductive roster. According to a source, the New York Daily News reported, the team is in fire-sale mode. Only Mason Plumlee and Kevin Garnett are not being made available.
Well-informed NBA observer Adrian Wojnarowski said the team decided against making a trade on Friday. Media speculation had Lopez headed out in a three-way deal involving the Charlotte Hornets and Oklahoma City Thunder. It had appeared he was bound for the Thunder.
Didn't happen. A team source told Wojnarowski: "Standing pat at this time. There was nothing we liked."
That doesn't mean Lopez could still be traded. It just means the team is seeking more attractive offers. The Miami Heat and Houston Rockets were believed in the pool of potential suitors.
Lopez isn't in a hurry — “I like it here,” Lopez said after the game. “I’ve been here my whole career. I’m kind of partial to it now.”
Still, serviceable 7-foot centres don't grow on trees. And with the Nets reportedly up for sale, cutting expensive limbs appears to be the team's mandate.
Not even a solid game by a former All-Star can adjust that picture. Yet Lopez remains an injury concern, but to the Nets and any team interested in acquiring his services. He also is criticised for his rebounding and defensive shortcomings.
Lopez helped the Nets snap a seven-game losing streak on Friday. His next points might soon come in another uniform.