In mid-September 2025, the Brooklyn Nets acquired Kobe Bufkin, the former No. 15 pick from the Atlanta Hawks, in exchange for cash considerations. However, just over a month later, Brooklyn waived Bufkin, as confirmed by ESPN’s Shams Charania. This decision raises questions about the implications for the Brooklyn Nets heading into the upcoming season.
Waiving Kobe Bufkin: Implications for the Brooklyn Nets
The Nets’ move to waive Bufkin does not appear to significantly impact the team’s strategy for the 2025-26 season. Originally, acquiring Bufkin was viewed as a low-risk venture, given the minimal cost involved. Drafted in 2023, Bufkin struggled to make an impression in Atlanta, posting an average of 5.0 points per game with a shooting percentage of 37% over two seasons.
Bufkin’s Performance Review
- In the 2023-2024 G League, Bufkin excelled, averaging 23.6 points per game.
- He achieved a shooting percentage of 45% and made 36% of his three-point attempts.
- During the preseason, he scored eight points and grabbed four rebounds against Hapoel Jerusalem.
- However, he had a disappointing performance against the Suns, shooting 1-for-5 with four turnovers.
Despite showing potential in the G League, Bufkin struggled to secure a permanent spot with the Nets. The decision to waive him indicates that he did not impress enough during training camp and preseason games.
Future Prospects for the Nets
The Brooklyn Nets are anticipated to have a challenging season ahead. With projections placing them among the league’s lesser teams, Bufkin’s departure may not hinder their plans. Instead, it opens more opportunities for other young players on the roster, such as Egor Demin, Nolan Traore, Ben Saraf, and Danny Wolf.
Brooklyn fans can take solace in the organization’s continuous efforts to acquire talent, even through avenues beyond the NBA Draft. The Nets are expected to make more moves to enhance their roster before the 2026 draft.
As the regular season approaches, the Nets will face the Charlotte Hornets in their opener on October 22, 2025, at 6 p.m. CT. This matchup will allow the team to showcase their new and existing talent on a larger stage.
